We're back with Part TWO of our Q&A. If you missed Part One, check it out here: ua-cam.com/video/rxTIbTM2CxU/v-deo.html You can also check out our other videos related to my cancer journey here: bit.ly/KrockCancerJourney Click on a time below to skip ahead to a specific section of the Q&A: Diagnosis - 00:27 Tests / Genetics - 07:00 Other Questions - 16:41 Diagnosis (starts at 00:27) * When you first felt pain, and that something was off, was the pain located on one side, where the ovaries are, or more in the center? * Are you saying your only symptom was a little bit of pain? I didn't hear you talk about any other clues or symptoms you had. * What test did you do for the doctor to take your pain seriously and do an ovarian cancer test? My doctor just thinks mine is related to endometrial pain. * Was there an ovarian cyst in your case? * How did you find the CT scan to be diagnostically for you? Did they find evidence of cancer on your CT? Tests / Genetics (starts at 07:00) * Can they do a PET scan? * Have you been tested for the BRCA gene mutation? * Would you mind clarifying your genetic testing? * You mentioned your grandmother had ovarian cancer. Is there a possibility there's a genetic component to your cancer? * Did you ever mention to your OB-GYN that your grandmother died of ovarian cancer? * What was your CA 125 number? * Has there ever been talks with the doctor about treatments like Car-T or stem cell transplant, or an interest in a drug study in the future? Other Questions (starts at 16:41) * What type of ovarian cancer is it? * Can you get ovarian cancer if you're negative for HPV? * You know how you said they were presenting you to the tumor board? What were the conclusions? * Wait. Just caught this. There is a mass on your other ovary? * What about your ureter area, has the cancer shrunk? Do you still have the stent? * Did you ask what other cell types those lesions on your liver might have been and if any of those are responsive to chemotherapy? * Could this be a Johnson & Johnson thing? * Are you doing any holistic type healing? Massage? Acupuncture, sauna? Nature exposure? * Have you been assigned a social worker? * Do you have someone to talk to about your depression and emotions? * Have you thought about joining a support group through your local hospital or other organization? * How is Brian doing?
Jessica, you are doing a major public service, sharing your situation with others. I have learned so much. You are giving out information honestly, intelligently. Brian, too. Thanks.
Your empathy for your parents even before you have had children is remarkable. I’m a parent and a grandparent and you are exactly right. We suffer more when our children are suffering then we would if it was ourselves. A parents love for her child is greater than a child’s love for her parent. For you to feel that way about your parents truly speaks to your character. God bless you and give you strength as you continue this journey. He is going to be faithful and keep his promises.
My genetic test came back negative, also. I may have only been tested for BRCA 1 and 2, I don't remember (it was 10 years ago.) I am half Jewish so it was a real worry. I was very relieved to tell my sister, because that meant she didn't have to get testing or worry about having the genetic predisposition for ovarian and breast cancer. A simple diagnostic test for ovarian cancer MUST be developed. My CA-125 numbers were never elevated, either. I was diagnosed by accident, almost-- I had fibroids, had an ultrasound after I had a bit of spotting. The fibroids were fine but the radiologist noticed a small ovarian cyst. My GP had me follow up with another ultrasound 4 months later, and the cyst had not resolved, as often happens. It had grown a bit. So I had surgery to remove that ovary (I was already in menopause so was fine with simply removing that ovary) and that's when I was diagnosed, in September 2010, probably YEARS before I would have felt any symptoms. I went through carbo-platin and taxol chemo, 6 rounds (18 weekly sessions, both drugs on week 1, then just the taxol on weeks 2 and 3) then full hysterectomy, samples taken from omentum. No signs of cancer found anywhere in that second surgery and I'm here, cancer-free, 12 years after diagnosis. I hope Jessica has the same good fortune.
Marjorie Milner, please let your sister know that your tests are not a guarantee that she will not be positive. I had the same suggestion to test for BRCA 1 & 2 for my sister's info also. I was reluctant to do that since a negative result might persuade them they were home free. I did ultimately have the test after discussing it with my oncologist and shared my negative results with sisters but added that my oncologist said not to rely on that for a guarantee. A few years later my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and also took the tests. She shared her positive results with me, but not my sisters. I emphasized that I would not tell them, but she had to let them know since they could inherit that from her and they had to know that their risk was now increased. I would tell them if she didn't. She did tell them in my presence, and they are aware.
Everyone in my family that died barring accidents has died from cancer, but the cancer is ALWAYS a different cancer. I can name colon cancer, throat cancer, brain cancer, non Hodgkin's lymphoma, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, melanoma. I have an aunt who had breast cancer and was successfully treated, but now had thyroid cancer. I had endometriosis, but they didn't know it was there until I had a hysterectomy in my thirties. My younger sister had melanoma at thirty. Fuck cancer. It destroys people and families every day all over the world and I admire both your outlooks.
I have Crohns disease and following a critical episode and life saving surgery I now live with intestinal failure/short bowel syndrome and a permanent jejunostomy. I'm often asked if I belong to a club or support group and get a ridiculous amount of perverse pleasure in answering quite honestly 'Nah, it's just not my bag'.
I’ve learned so much from you guys. The nitty gritty facts, but perhaps more importantly the deeper wisdom of your experience. It’s SO valuable and you both are so generous to share it. Love you guys.
Saying that if your doctor does not give you answers to your concerns or questions, you might want to find another doctor ... this isn't medical advice. This is just good common sense advice! I am not a medical professional, either; but I AM a professional human being, and have given this same suggestion to friends and family. If you aren't being taken seriously, you need to go elsewhere. Your openess and honesty about the process is SO helpful. You are doing a great service to those who are going through this themselves, or being a support for someone who is. Thank you for taking the time and effort to do this.
I went through cancer with my husband twice, 20 years apart (and different cancers). First time was before we had a computer. I spent as much time as I could (while he was sleeping and didn't need to know I was right at his side) in the room they had at the hospital with computers for us to do research on... it was kind of a joke since I had no computer skills yet but, the most important piece of information I found early in my search is that "someone has survived every form of cancer and every phase of all forms of cancer". That one piece of knowledge should be your platform. No matter where you are, someone has been there and survived!! xoxo
I am curious if you had covid vaccine prior to your diagnoses? I am only asking because there are some people who developed some odd and unexpexted diagnoses post covid vaccine….. just a thought 🤷♀️ Good luck with your treatment ❤ So glad you have Brian by your side - stay strong Brain youve got this 🙌
I believe the Physician's Committee for Resposible Medicine (PCRM) is also working on bettering hospital food. Perhaps when this is over you can find out what they did. Glad you are sticking with WFPB.
Hey, please remember this is your journey. You do you. Forget about other peoples' "shoulds". When I got C, everyone suddenly had advice. They were well meaning but I had to remember it is/was MY journey. I quickly learned to just let their advice flow over and around me like a river. I stayed in control and picked what I wanted to while discarding the rest. I'm praying for you and Bryan.
I feel like questions from strangers are so intrusive, I know they might mean well. I'm so sorry! 😞 You both have such an upbeat and positive outlook! Sending 🙏🙏 and ❤️❤️!
I agree with you But when people put so many details of their personal business online it leads folks to think they can ask questions because SOO much private information has already been freely shared on such a large public scale.
I definitely agree . They don’t need to answer any but still do ... I think most questions are mainly asked out of concern for her . But some are just 😮
That’s why Jess and Brian are doing the videos and publicly sharing the journey is to possibly help someone else.They want to help others that might’ve just got diagnosed or to spread info on what to look for if someone thinks something might be going on.Honestly I think it’s also good to talk about it.We all care a lot for them both.🙏🏻💝
I recall (stage 4 breast cancer) there was so much to do with all the treatments, appointments, pre Google research in the bio-med library and for me to support my two teenage children, plus support of my mother, it was like a full time job for *two years*. I did therapy but while I was encouraged by my social worker to join a support group, I just couldn't. There was barely time for me to do what I needed to do for my sanity. Getting to know new people, expending more emotional energy on strangers in different places in their journeys was just a step too far for me. I had wonderful support from my family (my brother, aunts, uncles, cousins) and I honestly felt very overwhelmed nearly 100% of the time. Having serious cancer is like a full time job imo. To prioritise yourself means just that, and I don't see how I could have introduced more into my schedule. Full. Time. Job! It's demanding and it's damned busy! Plus stressful in complicated ways. I love your teamwork Jessica and Brian. I'm sure you are doing everything and then some 🥰
I agree, I didn't want anything to do with support groups, just the thought of all those sick people sitting around and talking to each other about their issues saddens me. I can't see how this helps anyone.
I participated in a support group and found it highly beneficial. There was a mix of women from newly diagnosed patients like me to 20+ year survivors, and every stage of treatment in between. Ages ranged from mid-twenties to seventies. In the "outside world" people would tell me what I should have done to prevent it or it was my own fault or my personality and I should do this or that to cure myself... based on whatever pop science theory was in vogue at the time. In the group we could laugh at things like this. Researchers know more about cancer all the time but then and now there is little answer to why does it happen, how did I get it. Everyone was different... women with children, and women without, those who had taken birth control pills and those who never took it... women who had
Kept fit and those who weren't... Especially I appreciated meeting the many long term survivors. That was in 2001 and now I'm one of them. I think of you Jessica and Brian and wish I could do more for you. As you know, you're in good hands.
You are so gracious, well-informed and willing to share with wider public. Thank you. So different to some other channels (talking about you tt), who simply push merch and "cosy" things, instead of providing educational info.
I have recently been diagnosed with cancer, too, and it’s a whirlwind of emotions. I admire your candour and grit in keeping up with the posts. I also was told it was likely kidney stones because I’m previously very healthy and we didn’t anticipate anything dire. But surgery is next week. 🤞
Dear friend, I had cancer too. One thing that was of tremendous comfort was a friend bought me a cheap MP3 player and loaded it with Charles Stanley sermons, my church's sermons, and great music. After surgery I put my earphones in and let that play nonstop. She used a cheap MP3 player because it wouldn't be a theft target in the hospital. I also lived in big muumuus I bought for $10 each at Burlington Coat Factory. I had endometrial cancer and couldn't bend at the waist for 7 weeks so no pants, no underwear possible. I put folded bath towels on my chairs because easy to wash. I also put stuff on top of counters like food, clothes, etc. because I was alone. Ask your doctor's medical assistant what can make your life easier after surgery. Slide in shoes were a huge blessing for me. I also made them give me the post surgical instructions in advance so I could read them clear headed. My preparation really paid off. I will be praying for you.
I've seen two different doctors for weird pain and both refused to tell me what was on the scan. At my first appointment the ultrasound technician told me she saw a mass connecting both of my ovaries. In order to get answers I'm going to have to fight for my medical records then see a doctor in a different state. I'm glad you had a good experience. It's already hard and when you have uneducated doctors that makes it worse.
Brian, you mental health is as important as the cancer. People don’t get cancer. Families get cancer. Jessica is right, this cancer affects you as much as it does Jessica. We can see that Jessica is you life and visa versa. You are blessed to be so intertwined by your love for each other. But the downside is that a diagnosis like this affects both of you equally. You are important. Take care of yourself too. (Not minimizing your cancer experience, Jessica. It’s horrible. At your young age this should not be happening. I’m so sorry it is happening to you. :-(
I totally agree Jessica that it’s harder on the caregiver and family than it is on us…the one going through the cancer….my initial ca125 test was 14….but I learned that we all have a normal number for us…..after chemo, and surgery my number for me is 4.4 to 5….I now am checked every 3 months to see if it’s gone up….so far at my first 3 month checkup it has gone down to 4.4….so I’m good for another 3months….I had stage 4 endometrial serous carcinoma….and I am now cancer free….praying you will be to someday…🙏🤗❤️👍
Jessica, when you said it is harder on them than you, that just goes to show what an amazing human being you are!! It’s so true tho, that we worry so much about our loved ones and it sucks so much to go through these things. Life can be so beautiful and so cruel. My family will continue to send prayers every day!
You precious people are so gracious in opening up your personal journey to the online community. Gives us a better explanation of how to pray for you both. Sending hugs for your day.
My husband recently received some very devastating health news. He is handling it in his usual no nonsense "taking care of business" way. And I am doing everything I can to make things easier for him. I have to admit that I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the waves of dread, anxiety and sadness that wash over me. I am thankful that at least I don't have depression to add to that list--I am sad, but I know there is a big difference between that and depression. But I am pretty good at holding things together for my husband's sake. With all the emotions that I know you are both experiencing, I find it remarkable that you are able to share so much with us. Thank you both. Sometimes I have to wait until I feel strong enough to watch ... but I always do eventually. I am wishing so hard for the best possible outcome for you!
My daughter has been in remission for 10 years. August pain hit. She is still waiting for ultrasound and reco was provided to two hospitals. They didn't do a radical when they did the surgery due to her age they said. Regret with our overloaded system here in 🇨🇦.
It was so understandable because of your young age; it would not be the first thing on their minds. Who knows, it could have been an ectopic pregnancy or ovarian cysts. It is so surprising and scary that you went from 0-60 with your symptoms. You are helping so many people!!! May God bless and heal you !! You are in my prayers everyday. I commend your honesty; you are helping so many people by being informative and relatable. Your best advice to ALL of us is to be your own advocate. You know your body better than anyone else and you did everything to the best of your ability to take care of yourself.
The gene you mentioned says this on PubMed :: The TSC2 gene provides instructions for producing a protein called tuberin. Within cells, tuberin interacts with a protein called hamartin, which is produced from the TSC1 gene. These two proteins help control cell growth and division (proliferation) and cell size. Proteins that normally prevent cells from growing and dividing too fast or in an uncontrolled way are known as tumor suppressors. Hamartin and tuberin carry out their tumor suppressor function by interacting with and regulating a wide variety of other proteins. 🤷♀️ Goodness knows what it means.
Your honesty and generosity are amazing (both of you)! 🙏❤ Having lost too many to this vicious disease, I have learned 3 things for sure. #1 Everybody is different. #2 Every course of treatment is different. #3 Everybody responds to treatment differently.
Thank you for allowing us to follow you on this journey. It's a tough road. My sister in law is 82 she had non Hodgkin lymphoma and she went into remission. It came back and they talked about doing CarT but she said at her age it's very risky and she would rather not do it. I am praying for you daily that you get your answers and you get cured. I know looks can be deceiving but just want you to know you look amazing and have a beautiful bald head and I am so proud of you for not hiding it. I have heard good thing about CarT and since your young I pray it will help you.
Every time I've filled out a medical history form, I've always indicated that my maternal grandmother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in her late 60s. No doctor has ever viewed that as a red flag. It's always confused me, but that's the reality of it. Not even my ob-gyn. Never. Not once.
My Sweet Mama used Talc Powder every, single day for 40 years and then developed Ovarian CA at the age of 62, Stage-3...City of Hope felt it was more than likely related to her case as none of us carry the BRCA-1 Gene!!
I admire your dedication and courage to share everything about your lives. I remember that all female cancers were caused by baby powder. Several law firms lived up to sue baby powder. No one lined up to research female organ cancers.
Variants aren’t interesting aren’t they? My mom and I share a variant of unknown significance. We had genetic testing in 2007 when I got breast cancer. My mom passed last year from a rare form of gastrointestinal cancer called GIST. I had testing done again and still to this day our variant is still of unknown significance. Also results from myriad. You guys are awesome for openly talking about your cancer!!! These are things that can hopefully help someone struggling to find answers. Clinical trials are awesome, I did a breast cancer trial through the Mayo Clinic in Rochester also.
Your right it does suck and u don’t have to be positive all the time to please others. You are both lovely people and you are in my thoughts and prayers and you just be you x x x x x 🙏
Thank you so much for enlightening us on your personal experience with this disease. This could save someone's life because of you. Sending you my love and prayers from the UK 🥰❤🙏
Hi beautiful Jessica, you're both so brave and strong. I love your video, so informative and helpful to many of us. You are so right cancer just Sucks big time. I'm sending you and Brian so much love and healing prayers always ❤️ 🙏 xxx ❤️
I was told that as well when I was first going through genetic testing to find out if I had any of the genes that can cause melanoma. I was negative for brca, cdk4, and braf. I’m currently awaiting results to see if I have Lynch syndrome. I’m number 4 in my immediate family.
In my experience, support groups have made me feel worse. Its difficult to hear about other's struggles and it takes up a lot of energy when you barely have enough energy to deal with your own struggles. Perhaps some people find support in a group setting, but for me it brought me down and made me feel worse.
I love you guys so much. Thank you! I’ve been watching you regularly since before you were diagnosed. And I was dealing with upper back pain during these nighttime’s of video watching. You and Jenny Apple and Tiffany Thinks… why was I watching these vlogs of people, only God knows. But sadly I’ve just been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, just saw oncologist 1st time today! This makes your vlogs even more significant. Brian, would you sing some more?
Your right it SUCKS! It’s very hard on all concerned. We just have different perspectives. Being a caregiver for 3 years before my Bobby passed away in April of this year was extremely hard. Because like you said we can’t make it better, we can’t make disease go away. Then being diagnosed myself with Lymphoma/Leukemia 2 years ago this month I’m seeing things from a different perspective. I mean Bobby had me by his side, he suffered greatly from Pulmonary Fibrosis and CHF as I’ve mentioned in previous posts. I’m still W&W. When my time comes for treatment I will endure it alone. Bobby and I found each other later in life. He had already cared for his first wife for 8years, before she passed. I wouldn’t have wanted him to go through that again with me. You’ve got youth on your side and they’re finding all sorts of new strides with different cancers. Plus you’ve got your Brian who is your rock. He researches and is up on all the specifics. You both are just the most loving couple and it shines through. But like you said and I’ve said it so many times it all SUCKS! Sending my prayers and hugs 🙏🏻🙏🏻🤗🤗💜
My mom died of colon cancer, and my dad of bladder cancer, so I feel a know a lot. Still, I appreciate your willingness to explain the details, so much. I think being a whole plant food eater, tho not perfect, has helped me avoid it, so far. Good for you for doing your best with the food plan too. All the best to you both.
It truly sucks. It’s truly not fair. I am sending healing vibes to you my friend and your feelings are very valid and completely natural. Hugs to both of you and your mom ❤❤❤
I believe the plant based diet plus chemo will cure you Jessica. Sounds like u are in good hands. I suffered from endometriosis for around 10 yrs and after I started eating plant based after 6 months I noticed that i longer get pain from it. I was on birth control for a long time and every time I went off of it, the pain would come back. But the first cycle i had after switching to plant based i had no pain and i was praising the lord cuz that pain hurts and so glad i no longer get the pain or need to take birth control. Also my eye sight has improved.
I don't comment much but I do follow you and have been since waaay before covid. I listen to you Jessica, and have learned a lot about what you are going through. The level of detail you share, including your emotions, is incredibly valuable and I thank you. It can't be easy but you do it nevertheless. Yes it sucks big time. And it sucks for Brian and your mom. Much love from a Connecticut fan of Krocks in the kitchen, Barb ☹♥🌷
Yep cancer sucks, next treatment is tomorrow my anxiety is through the roof. Ended up in the emergency room this past Saturday for supportive care. My CA125 first test was 19 second was 14 last one was 8.
Regarding scans, it looks like it varies with the center. At my initial diagnosis my cancer center did PET scans but after I switched to MD Anderson, they only give me PET-CT scans. They've never done one or the other, it's always both combined, which I like.
I just love you both!! You are such a special couple that compliment each other!! I'm praying hard for you Jessica and know that you will come through this with the Lord's guidance!! ❤
There is a new place in Grand Rapids MI that is 1st of it's kind . It's called BAMF. I don't know if there are doing anything yet with oviarin ca yet. It will be doing more types of studies/ therapies in the future. CT scan is more for structure and PET and Nulear med if function base.
I really appreciate 'knowing' you guys. And yes it does totally Suck! There's alot of value in your sharing, hard to describe... so Thanks for sharing... sending you lots of🙏💜🙏💜
I am a great believer in gratitude. What things are you and Brian grateful for each and every day Other than the obvious. Also how do you enjoy your time together these days?
I agree. Your doctor team is one of the most important parts of the process. Trust is imperative. My breast surgeon, oncologist and radiologist team were available and honest with us.
Working for Ob/gyn for many years. The determining test is blood for ca-125 ( basic tumor marker). I know the term Lynch Syndrome refers to woman pts who have ca in one area , it must be checked in Breast, Gi gut, gyn .
Depends. I had endometrial cancer and my CA 125 was not elevated. Oncologist said CA 125 isn't a definitive test so she won't repeat the test for me. I wonder all the time if more cancer is growing. She said the sign of return will be more bleeding or seeing evidence during physical exams every 6 months. It was a cloud at the back of my mind but I trust that God's will shall be done so if I live it will be for Christ and if I die, isn't heaven a better place to be?
thanks for your analizing all these results! I sure wish I was as capable as you at comprehending all the medical lingo. great work guys!! love and prayers!!
I feel it is good that u both made/made the time to talk to us viewers who care so much about u, and the both of u. Brian, as a guy who loves your wife w all your being, but u both do the food videos your life in this journey to Health...now u need our prayers and thoughts for future and continued Healing in the physical medical Life. Brian, Faith, Family, Friends is how I look at Life although not everyone may have the same Faith, your online community, I think, feels to many of the viewers, as friends/family. Blessings, love and prayers for all, Health and Healing for all, from Israel 🇮🇱.
Jessica, I'm acknowledging, CANCER SUCKS! Thank you for sharing your journey with all of us. I am learning so much from you! Sending much love to you and Bryan. Continued prayers for complete healing! 🙏💙
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We're back with Part TWO of our Q&A. If you missed Part One, check it out here: ua-cam.com/video/rxTIbTM2CxU/v-deo.html
You can also check out our other videos related to my cancer journey here: bit.ly/KrockCancerJourney
Click on a time below to skip ahead to a specific section of the Q&A:
Diagnosis - 00:27
Tests / Genetics - 07:00
Other Questions - 16:41
Diagnosis (starts at 00:27)
* When you first felt pain, and that something was off, was the pain located on one side, where the ovaries are, or more in the center?
* Are you saying your only symptom was a little bit of pain? I didn't hear you talk about any other clues or symptoms you had.
* What test did you do for the doctor to take your pain seriously and do an ovarian cancer test? My doctor just thinks mine is related to endometrial pain.
* Was there an ovarian cyst in your case?
* How did you find the CT scan to be diagnostically for you? Did they find evidence of cancer on your CT?
Tests / Genetics (starts at 07:00)
* Can they do a PET scan?
* Have you been tested for the BRCA gene mutation?
* Would you mind clarifying your genetic testing?
* You mentioned your grandmother had ovarian cancer. Is there a possibility there's a genetic component to your cancer?
* Did you ever mention to your OB-GYN that your grandmother died of ovarian cancer?
* What was your CA 125 number?
* Has there ever been talks with the doctor about treatments like Car-T or stem cell transplant, or an interest in a drug study in the future?
Other Questions (starts at 16:41)
* What type of ovarian cancer is it?
* Can you get ovarian cancer if you're negative for HPV?
* You know how you said they were presenting you to the tumor board? What were the conclusions?
* Wait. Just caught this. There is a mass on your other ovary?
* What about your ureter area, has the cancer shrunk? Do you still have the stent?
* Did you ask what other cell types those lesions on your liver might have been and if any of those are responsive to chemotherapy?
* Could this be a Johnson & Johnson thing?
* Are you doing any holistic type healing? Massage? Acupuncture, sauna? Nature exposure?
* Have you been assigned a social worker?
* Do you have someone to talk to about your depression and emotions?
* Have you thought about joining a support group through your local hospital or other organization?
* How is Brian doing?
Jessica, you are doing a major public service, sharing your situation with others. I have learned so much. You are giving out information honestly, intelligently. Brian, too. Thanks.
Your empathy for your parents even before you have had children is remarkable. I’m a parent and a grandparent and you are exactly right. We suffer more when our children are suffering then we would if it was ourselves. A parents love for her child is greater than a child’s love for her parent. For you to feel that way about your parents truly speaks to your character. God bless you and give you strength as you continue this journey. He is going to be faithful and keep his promises.
My genetic test came back negative, also. I may have only been tested for BRCA 1 and 2, I don't remember (it was 10 years ago.) I am half Jewish so it was a real worry. I was very relieved to tell my sister, because that meant she didn't have to get testing or worry about having the genetic predisposition for ovarian and breast cancer. A simple diagnostic test for ovarian cancer MUST be developed. My CA-125 numbers were never elevated, either. I was diagnosed by accident, almost-- I had fibroids, had an ultrasound after I had a bit of spotting. The fibroids were fine but the radiologist noticed a small ovarian cyst. My GP had me follow up with another ultrasound 4 months later, and the cyst had not resolved, as often happens. It had grown a bit. So I had surgery to remove that ovary (I was already in menopause so was fine with simply removing that ovary) and that's when I was diagnosed, in September 2010, probably YEARS before I would have felt any symptoms. I went through carbo-platin and taxol chemo, 6 rounds (18 weekly sessions, both drugs on week 1, then just the taxol on weeks 2 and 3) then full hysterectomy, samples taken from omentum. No signs of cancer found anywhere in that second surgery and I'm here, cancer-free, 12 years after diagnosis. I hope Jessica has the same good fortune.
Marjorie Milner, please let your sister know that your tests are not a guarantee that she will not be positive. I had the same suggestion to test for BRCA 1 & 2 for my sister's info also. I was reluctant to do that since a negative result might persuade them they were home free. I did ultimately have the test after discussing it with my oncologist and shared my negative results with sisters but added that my oncologist said not to rely on that for a guarantee. A few years later my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and also took the tests. She shared her positive results with me, but not my sisters. I emphasized that I would not tell them, but she had to let them know since they could inherit that from her and they had to know that their risk was now increased. I would tell them if she didn't. She did tell them in my presence, and they are aware.
Everyone in my family that died barring accidents has died from cancer, but the cancer is ALWAYS a different cancer. I can name colon cancer, throat cancer, brain cancer, non Hodgkin's lymphoma, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, melanoma. I have an aunt who had breast cancer and was successfully treated, but now had thyroid cancer. I had endometriosis, but they didn't know it was there until I had a hysterectomy in my thirties. My younger sister had melanoma at thirty.
Fuck cancer. It destroys people and families every day all over the world and I admire both your outlooks.
I have Crohns disease and following a critical episode and life saving surgery I now live with intestinal failure/short bowel syndrome and a permanent jejunostomy. I'm often asked if I belong to a club or support group and get a ridiculous amount of perverse pleasure in answering quite honestly 'Nah, it's just not my bag'.
I’ve learned so much from you guys. The nitty gritty facts, but perhaps more importantly the deeper wisdom of your experience. It’s SO valuable and you both are so generous to share it. Love you guys.
My friend had breast cancer surgery Thursday and found out today she is cancer free!!! Take that, cancer!!! Phuck cancer!
🎉💐🎈What great news!!! Praise God.
Hallelujah praise His name glory
Saying that if your doctor does not give you answers to your concerns or questions, you might want to find another doctor ... this isn't medical advice. This is just good common sense advice! I am not a medical professional, either; but I AM a professional human being, and have given this same suggestion to friends and family. If you aren't being taken seriously, you need to go elsewhere. Your openess and honesty about the process is SO helpful. You are doing a great service to those who are going through this themselves, or being a support for someone who is. Thank you for taking the time and effort to do this.
My heart hurts for both of u. This whole situation blows!!!!! I wish I could fix it for u. I am however offering all my luv n light to u both.
I went through cancer with my husband twice, 20 years apart (and different cancers). First time was before we had a computer. I spent as much time as I could (while he was sleeping and didn't need to know I was right at his side) in the room they had at the hospital with computers for us to do research on... it was kind of a joke since I had no computer skills yet but, the most important piece of information I found early in my search is that "someone has survived every form of cancer and every phase of all forms of cancer". That one piece of knowledge should be your platform. No matter where you are, someone has been there and survived!! xoxo
sounds good to hear that someone has survived advanced pancreatic cancer
I am curious if you had covid vaccine prior to your diagnoses? I am only asking because there are some people who developed some odd and unexpexted diagnoses post covid vaccine….. just a thought 🤷♀️
Good luck with your treatment ❤
So glad you have Brian by your side - stay strong Brain youve got this 🙌
I believe the Physician's Committee for Resposible Medicine (PCRM) is also working on bettering hospital food. Perhaps when this is over you can find out what they did. Glad you are sticking with WFPB.
Hey, please remember this is your journey. You do you. Forget about other peoples' "shoulds". When I got C, everyone suddenly had advice. They were well meaning but I had to remember it is/was MY journey. I quickly learned to just let their advice flow over and around me like a river. I stayed in control and picked what I wanted to while discarding the rest. I'm praying for you and Bryan.
Sending love and prayers and reiki to you both. God Bless you
I feel like questions from strangers are so intrusive, I know they might mean well. I'm so sorry! 😞 You both have such an upbeat and positive outlook! Sending 🙏🙏 and ❤️❤️!
They asked dummy!
I agree with you
But when people put so many details of their personal business online it leads folks to think they can ask questions because SOO much private information has already been freely shared on such a large public scale.
I definitely agree . They don’t need to answer any but still do ... I think most questions are mainly asked out of concern for her . But some are just 😮
Some people don't mind living their lives in public. If you don't, then you shouldn't.
That’s why Jess and Brian are doing the videos and publicly sharing the journey is to possibly help someone else.They want to help others that might’ve just got diagnosed or to spread info on what to look for if someone thinks something might be going on.Honestly I think it’s also good to talk about it.We all care a lot for them both.🙏🏻💝
Happy Thanksgiving!❤️🙏❤️
I recall (stage 4 breast cancer) there was so much to do with all the treatments, appointments, pre Google research in the bio-med library and for me to support my two teenage children, plus support of my mother, it was like a full time job for *two years*. I did therapy but while I was encouraged by my social worker to join a support group, I just couldn't. There was barely time for me to do what I needed to do for my sanity. Getting to know new people, expending more emotional energy on strangers in different places in their journeys was just a step too far for me. I had wonderful support from my family (my brother, aunts, uncles, cousins) and I honestly felt very overwhelmed nearly 100% of the time. Having serious cancer is like a full time job imo. To prioritise yourself means just that, and I don't see how I could have introduced more into my schedule. Full. Time. Job! It's demanding and it's damned busy! Plus stressful in complicated ways. I love your teamwork Jessica and Brian. I'm sure you are doing everything and then some 🥰
I agree, I didn't want anything to do with support groups, just the thought of all those sick people sitting around and talking to each other about their issues saddens me. I can't see how this helps anyone.
I participated in a support group and found it highly beneficial. There was a mix of women from newly diagnosed patients like me to 20+ year survivors, and every stage of treatment in between. Ages ranged from mid-twenties to seventies. In the "outside world" people would tell me what I should have done to prevent it or it was my own fault or my personality and I should do this or that to cure myself... based on whatever pop science theory was in vogue at the time. In the group we could laugh at things like this. Researchers know more about cancer all the time but then and now there is little answer to why does it happen, how did I get it. Everyone was different... women with children, and women without, those who had taken birth control pills and those who never took it... women who had
Kept fit and those who weren't...
Especially I appreciated meeting the many long term survivors. That was in 2001 and now I'm one of them.
I think of you Jessica and Brian and wish I could do more for you. As you know, you're in good hands.
You are Jessica’s support. Therefore you need to take care of your mental and physical self. You are cray important no matter how you look at things.
Praying everyday for you during my daily rosary
You are so gracious, well-informed and willing to share with wider public. Thank you.
So different to some other channels (talking about you tt), who simply push merch and "cosy" things, instead of providing educational info.
I have recently been diagnosed with cancer, too, and it’s a whirlwind of emotions. I admire your candour and grit in keeping up with the posts. I also was told it was likely kidney stones because I’m previously very healthy and we didn’t anticipate anything dire. But surgery is next week. 🤞
Dear friend, I had cancer too. One thing that was of tremendous comfort was a friend bought me a cheap MP3 player and loaded it with Charles Stanley sermons, my church's sermons, and great music. After surgery I put my earphones in and let that play nonstop. She used a cheap MP3 player because it wouldn't be a theft target in the hospital. I also lived in big muumuus I bought for $10 each at Burlington Coat Factory. I had endometrial cancer and couldn't bend at the waist for 7 weeks so no pants, no underwear possible. I put folded bath towels on my chairs because easy to wash. I also put stuff on top of counters like food, clothes, etc. because I was alone. Ask your doctor's medical assistant what can make your life easier after surgery. Slide in shoes were a huge blessing for me. I also made them give me the post surgical instructions in advance so I could read them clear headed. My preparation really paid off. I will be praying for you.
Love and Hugs ♥️
I've seen two different doctors for weird pain and both refused to tell me what was on the scan. At my first appointment the ultrasound technician told me she saw a mass connecting both of my ovaries. In order to get answers I'm going to have to fight for my medical records then see a doctor in a different state. I'm glad you had a good experience. It's already hard and when you have uneducated doctors that makes it worse.
We are praying for you Jessica, you will get through this. Cancer free you have everybody rooting for you!!
Brian, you mental health is as important as the cancer. People don’t get cancer. Families get cancer. Jessica is right, this cancer affects you as much as it does Jessica. We can see that Jessica is you life and visa versa. You are blessed to be so intertwined by your love for each other. But the downside is that a diagnosis like this affects both of you equally. You are important. Take care of yourself too. (Not minimizing your cancer experience, Jessica. It’s horrible. At your young age this should not be happening. I’m so sorry it is happening to you. :-(
I totally agree Jessica that it’s harder on the caregiver and family than it is on us…the one going through the cancer….my initial ca125 test was 14….but I learned that we all have a normal number for us…..after chemo, and surgery my number for me is 4.4 to 5….I now am checked every 3 months to see if it’s gone up….so far at my first 3 month checkup it has gone down to 4.4….so I’m good for another 3months….I had stage 4 endometrial serous carcinoma….and I am now cancer free….praying you will be to someday…🙏🤗❤️👍
🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼
You guys rock! Thanks for sharing your journey!
I appreciate your openness and honesty . . praying for you both!! With Love!!
Jessica, when you said it is harder on them than you, that just goes to show what an amazing human being you are!! It’s so true tho, that we worry so much about our loved ones and it sucks so much to go through these things. Life can be so beautiful and so cruel. My family will continue to send prayers every day!
You precious people are so gracious in opening up your personal journey to the online community. Gives us a better explanation of how to pray for you both. Sending hugs for your day.
My husband recently received some very devastating health news. He is handling it in his usual no nonsense "taking care of business" way. And I am doing everything I can to make things easier for him. I have to admit that I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the waves of dread, anxiety and sadness that wash over me. I am thankful that at least I don't have depression to add to that list--I am sad, but I know there is a big difference between that and depression. But I am pretty good at holding things together for my husband's sake. With all the emotions that I know you are both experiencing, I find it remarkable that you are able to share so much with us. Thank you both. Sometimes I have to wait until I feel strong enough to watch ... but I always do eventually. I am wishing so hard for the best possible outcome for you!
You all are amazing. God is with you
Hi folks, thank you for sharing 🙏❤️👍
My daughter has been in remission for 10 years. August pain hit.
She is still waiting for ultrasound and reco was provided to two hospitals.
They didn't do a radical when they did the surgery due to her age they said. Regret with our overloaded system here in 🇨🇦.
I'm so sorry. 🙏for you and your daughter. 💐
I love how supportive and involved your hubby is. That’s awesome!! Love heals quite a bit!
It was so understandable because of your young age; it would not be the first thing on their minds. Who knows, it could have been an ectopic pregnancy or ovarian cysts. It is so surprising and scary that you went from 0-60 with your symptoms. You are helping so many people!!! May God bless and heal you !! You are in my prayers everyday. I commend your honesty; you are helping so many people by being informative and relatable. Your best advice to ALL of us is to be your own advocate. You know your body better than anyone else and you did everything to the best of your ability to take care of yourself.
It does suck! Sending love and prayers to both of you. You’re very strong together…thank you for being willing to share with us! ❤❤
The gene you mentioned says this on PubMed ::
The TSC2 gene provides instructions for producing a protein called tuberin. Within cells, tuberin interacts with a protein called hamartin, which is produced from the TSC1 gene. These two proteins help control cell growth and division (proliferation) and cell size. Proteins that normally prevent cells from growing and dividing too fast or in an uncontrolled way are known as tumor suppressors. Hamartin and tuberin carry out their tumor suppressor function by interacting with and regulating a wide variety of other proteins.
🤷♀️ Goodness knows what it means.
Yes it does SUCK! praying for you Jessica! And Brian and the rest of your family and friends. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
actually we love going to the support group and learned alot about insurance, and treatments...
I would strongly encourage a PET scan as that shows the entire body. Sometimes places don’t want to do those because of the higher costs.
Your honesty and generosity are amazing (both of you)! 🙏❤ Having lost too many to this vicious disease, I have learned 3 things for sure. #1 Everybody is different. #2 Every course of treatment is different. #3 Everybody responds to treatment differently.
Thank you for allowing us to follow you on this journey. It's a tough road. My sister in law is 82 she had non Hodgkin lymphoma and she went into remission. It came back and they talked about doing CarT but she said at her age it's very risky and she would rather not do it. I am praying for you daily that you get your answers and you get cured. I know looks can be deceiving but just want you to know you look amazing and have a beautiful bald head and I am so proud of you for not hiding it. I have heard good thing about CarT and since your young I pray it will help you.
Sending prayers Jessica! 🙏🏼🥰
Thanks!
One day at a time. You got this. The entire internet is behind you all the way ❤️
You both are in my daily/nightly prayers. You both are Amazing!!!
Every time I've filled out a medical history form, I've always indicated that my maternal grandmother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in her late 60s. No doctor has ever viewed that as a red flag. It's always confused me, but that's the reality of it. Not even my ob-gyn. Never. Not once.
My Sweet Mama used Talc Powder every, single day for 40 years and then developed Ovarian CA at the age of 62, Stage-3...City of Hope felt it was more than likely related to her case as none of us carry the BRCA-1 Gene!!
You two are in my prayers. Brian you are wonderful and Jessica you are truly amazing.
I admire your dedication and courage to share everything about your lives. I remember that all female cancers were caused by baby powder. Several law firms lived up to sue baby powder. No one lined up to research female organ cancers.
Variants aren’t interesting aren’t they? My mom and I share a variant of unknown significance. We had genetic testing in 2007 when I got breast cancer. My mom passed last year from a rare form of gastrointestinal cancer called GIST. I had testing done again and still to this day our variant is still of unknown significance. Also results from myriad. You guys are awesome for openly talking about your cancer!!! These are things that can hopefully help someone struggling to find answers. Clinical trials are awesome, I did a breast cancer trial through the Mayo Clinic in Rochester also.
Your right it does suck and u don’t have to be positive all the time to please others. You are both lovely people and you are in my thoughts and prayers and you just be you x x x x x 🙏
Jessica and Brian bless you both. Hard times but you are amazing as you go through this journey. Your love shines through
Thank you so much for enlightening us on your personal experience with this disease.
This could save someone's life because of you.
Sending you my love and prayers from the UK 🥰❤🙏
Yes, it sucks but so many hearts are wrapped around you both. With love and prayers showering down on you both. Love from Sue in Oregon. :) 💖💝🙏🙏🙏
Hi beautiful Jessica, you're both so brave and strong. I love your video, so informative and helpful to many of us. You are so right cancer just Sucks big time. I'm sending you and Brian so much love and healing prayers always ❤️ 🙏 xxx ❤️
I was told that as well when I was first going through genetic testing to find out if I had any of the genes that can cause melanoma. I was negative for brca, cdk4, and braf. I’m currently awaiting results to see if I have Lynch syndrome. I’m number 4 in my immediate family.
You are both amazing people! 👏
Appreciate the updates and hope sharing your feelings and experiences with us are in some way helpful to both of you.
In my experience, support groups have made me feel worse. Its difficult to hear about other's struggles and it takes up a lot of energy when you barely have enough energy to deal with your own struggles. Perhaps some people find support in a group setting, but for me it brought me down and made me feel worse.
I love you guys so much. Thank you! I’ve been watching you regularly since before you were diagnosed. And I was dealing with upper back pain during these nighttime’s of video watching. You and Jenny Apple and Tiffany Thinks… why was I watching these vlogs of people, only God knows. But sadly I’ve just been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, just saw oncologist 1st time today! This makes your vlogs even more significant.
Brian, would you sing some more?
You two are just delightful
Blessings to you & your families!!!!!
Your right it SUCKS! It’s very hard on all concerned. We just have different perspectives. Being a caregiver for 3 years before my Bobby passed away in April of this year was extremely hard. Because like you said we can’t make it better, we can’t make disease go away. Then being diagnosed myself with Lymphoma/Leukemia 2 years ago this month I’m seeing things from a different perspective. I mean Bobby had me by his side, he suffered greatly from Pulmonary Fibrosis and CHF as I’ve mentioned in previous posts. I’m still W&W. When my time comes for treatment I will endure it alone. Bobby and I found each other later in life. He had already cared for his first wife for 8years, before she passed. I wouldn’t have wanted him to go through that again with me. You’ve got youth on your side and they’re finding all sorts of new strides with different cancers. Plus you’ve got your Brian who is your rock. He researches and is up on all the specifics. You both are just the most loving couple and it shines through. But like you said and I’ve said it so many times it all SUCKS! Sending my prayers and hugs
🙏🏻🙏🏻🤗🤗💜
My mom died of colon cancer, and my dad of bladder cancer, so I feel a know a lot. Still, I appreciate your willingness to explain the details, so much. I think being a whole plant food eater, tho not perfect, has helped me avoid it, so far. Good for you for doing your best with the food plan too. All the best to you both.
Continued prayers!!!!
Praying for continued strength, Warrior Jessica.❤
It truly sucks. It’s truly not fair. I am sending healing vibes to you my friend and your feelings are very valid and completely natural. Hugs to both of you and your mom ❤❤❤
I believe the plant based diet plus chemo will cure you Jessica. Sounds like u are in good hands. I suffered from endometriosis for around 10 yrs and after I started eating plant based after 6 months I noticed that i longer get pain from it. I was on birth control for a long time and every time I went off of it, the pain would come back. But the first cycle i had after switching to plant based i had no pain and i was praising the lord cuz that pain hurts and so glad i no longer get the pain or need to take birth control. Also my eye sight has improved.
Sending both of you so much love. I appreciate your transparency in going through this and talking it out for us.
I don't comment much but I do follow you and have been since waaay before covid. I listen to you Jessica, and have learned a lot about what you are going through. The level of detail you share, including your emotions, is incredibly valuable and I thank you. It can't be easy but you do it nevertheless. Yes it sucks big time. And it sucks for Brian and your mom. Much love from a Connecticut fan of Krocks in the kitchen, Barb ☹♥🌷
Yep cancer sucks, next treatment is tomorrow my anxiety is through the roof. Ended up in the emergency room this past Saturday for supportive care. My CA125 first test was 19 second was 14 last one was 8.
Thank you so much for the great information. Your openness and honesty is so helpful to many of us. Hugs to both of you.
I love you both. Brian is such a man!!!
Regarding scans, it looks like it varies with the center. At my initial diagnosis my cancer center did PET scans but after I switched to MD Anderson, they only give me PET-CT scans. They've never done one or the other, it's always both combined, which I like.
Love and prayers for both of you ❣️🙏🏼
Again, thank you for being so candid and sharing your journey. I know you are helping others going through something similar. 💕
Praying for you both ❤
I just love you both!! You are such a special couple that compliment each other!! I'm praying hard for you Jessica and know that you will come through this with the Lord's guidance!! ❤
There is a new place in Grand Rapids MI that is 1st of it's kind . It's called BAMF. I don't know if there are doing anything yet with oviarin ca yet. It will be doing more types of studies/ therapies in the future.
CT scan is more for structure and PET and Nulear med if function base.
Cancer sucks! You are beautiful Jessica! 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Your both beautiful amazing people, you deserve the best outcome to all this horrible stuff, 💕
I really appreciate 'knowing' you guys. And yes it does totally Suck! There's alot of value in your sharing, hard to describe... so Thanks for sharing... sending you lots of🙏💜🙏💜
Sending love and prayers
I am a great believer in gratitude. What things are you and Brian grateful for each and every day Other than the obvious. Also how do you enjoy your time together these days?
This situation sucks. And we continue to pray for the two of you.
I agree. Your doctor team is one of the most important parts of the process. Trust is imperative. My breast surgeon, oncologist and radiologist team were available and honest with us.
Continuing prayers for you and your family ❤
it sucks!!! love coming to you both from Colorado
Working for Ob/gyn for many years. The determining test is blood for ca-125 ( basic tumor marker). I know the term Lynch Syndrome refers to woman pts who have ca in one area , it must be checked in Breast, Gi gut, gyn .
Depends. I had endometrial cancer and my CA 125 was not elevated. Oncologist said CA 125 isn't a definitive test so she won't repeat the test for me. I wonder all the time if more cancer is growing. She said the sign of return will be more bleeding or seeing evidence during physical exams every 6 months. It was a cloud at the back of my mind but I trust that God's will shall be done so if I live it will be for Christ and if I die, isn't heaven a better place to be?
God Bless You Both 💕🙏💕
You both are incredible
Thanks again for sharing. Love you both.
Sending my love and prayers ❤️
Praying for you guys 🙏 and good to see you both.
thanks for your analizing all these results! I sure wish I was as capable as you at comprehending all the medical lingo. great work guys!! love and prayers!!
I feel it is good that u both made/made the time to talk to us viewers who care so much about u, and the both of u.
Brian, as a guy who loves your wife w all your being, but u both do the food videos your life in this journey to Health...now u need our prayers and thoughts for future and continued Healing in the physical medical Life.
Brian, Faith, Family, Friends is how I look at Life although not everyone may have the same Faith, your online community, I think, feels to many of the viewers, as friends/family.
Blessings, love and prayers for all, Health and Healing for all, from Israel 🇮🇱.
Prayers 🙏🙏🙏
Jessica, I'm acknowledging, CANCER SUCKS! Thank you for sharing your journey with all of us. I am learning so much from you! Sending much love to you and Bryan. Continued prayers for complete healing! 🙏💙