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Posted by: tracks914 Jun 4 2010, 02:18 PM

Bad news last week, my 16 year old daughter has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
7 years ago yesterday, at age 9, Rachel thought it would be funny to sign up to my 914 site from school. She became a member, still on the books as "Tracks914's daughter". After she signed up there were a lot of lude comments made and many members felt pretty bad when they found out she was 9 years old. It was a real good learning experience for both her (I let her read the comments) and the members "joking around". We still joke about it this day.

Last month she had a teratoma the size of a mayonase jar and one ovary removed.
It took 5 weeks to find out it was cancerous. (one of the downfalls of living in Northern Ontario) Since removal it has regrown to a size almost as big as before. We went out of town on Friday to start Chemo ASAP and got home last night after the first week of many treatments to follow.

It will be tough time for the foreseeable future and definately time to sell one of my 914's.

I'm not a religous man but quasi beleive in the power of positive thinking.
Any positive thoughts would be appreciated.
Tx
Doug

Below a picture of Rachel and me in Cuba 2 weeks before her surgury.


Attached image(s)

Posted by: RobW Jun 4 2010, 02:23 PM

Doug, I'm very sorry to hear this terrible news. I can only appreciate the reminder that life is short and fragile, and that nothing can be taken for granted.

Fight it with all you've got! You've got friends here hoping for the best...

Positive thoughts sent your way as requested...

Posted by: Tom_T Jun 4 2010, 02:26 PM

Sorry to hear that, so sad to be struck so young!
... but do keep up the good thoughts & positive attitude, cuz it's a proven medicinal benefit!
... Laughter is ALWAYS good medicine, so throw some "funnies" in from time to time on a regular basis!
....... the "splitting ribbier" the "betterer"!

Cheers!
Tom
///////

Posted by: mudfoot76 Jun 4 2010, 02:27 PM

Terrible news, but I'm sending positive thoughts your way too

Posted by: Phoenix 914-6GT Jun 4 2010, 02:29 PM

My family's thoughts and prayers are with you.

Posted by: BigDBass Jun 4 2010, 02:30 PM

So sorry to hear this, I don't want to even try to imagine. (My daughters are turning 2 and 4 over the next few weeks.)

Lots of positive thoughts coming your way. She can beat it, and you can too.

Posted by: iamchappy Jun 4 2010, 02:33 PM

All the best wishes and positive vibes coming to you and Rachel.....

Posted by: MDG Jun 4 2010, 02:36 PM

So sorry to hear this, Doug. As the dad of a daughter I feel your pain.

I'm rooting for you, Rachel. And Doug, she will win this!

Best wishes and clear thoughts,
mike

Posted by: KELTY360 Jun 4 2010, 02:46 PM

Sending all my best thoughts to Rachel and you.

Don't let it get you down, the docs have great tools these days, but they need your help. Stay positive and keep your sense of humor.

Posted by: URY914 Jun 4 2010, 02:49 PM

Very sorry to hear this. Be as strong as possible.

Posted by: william1764 Jun 4 2010, 02:50 PM

all the best - this is beatable! thoughts and prayers coming your way...

Posted by: messix Jun 4 2010, 02:53 PM

i feel for you

Posted by: underthetire Jun 4 2010, 03:00 PM

You have my positive thoughts. I sure things will get better.

Posted by: Drums66 Jun 4 2010, 03:01 PM

Please stay as positive as you possibly can!
you will be in my prayer's....sweetness.

P.S. I have a daughter myself

Posted by: Kargeek Jun 4 2010, 03:01 PM

Doug,

My family and I send our prayers...I am a cancer survivor. Keep the positive thoughts and will to overcome this issue. With treatment, positive awareness, education- (you have to take control with this issue), integrative health and diet practices- tell Rachel she will overcome this. She is young and can endure treatmen and be healthy again. Read the book the Anti Cancer. http://www.anticancerbook.com/

Good luck and good bless Rachel and your family.

Posted by: 914dave Jun 4 2010, 03:01 PM

Hang in there. I'm pulling for you and yours.

Posted by: TonyAKAVW Jun 4 2010, 03:01 PM

Very sorry to hear about this. Positive thoughts are on the way!

My sister (29 years old) is recovering from a surgery she had in December to remove a grapefruit sized tumor in her spine, and getting chemo right now.

If your daughter hasn't seen other oncologists yet for second opinions, now is the time. My sister would probably be paralyzed now if she had gone with her original treatment plan. Do some research and find the best cancer centers for what your daughter has, it can make a HUGE difference. The right cocktail of chemo and radiation comes from experience, especially on rare cancers.

Best wishes and luck!

-Tony

Posted by: Eddie914 Jun 4 2010, 03:05 PM

Our prayers and well wishes are with your daughter and your family.

Our 17 year daughter's surgery yesterday for ACH repair now seems so insignificant.

Best wishes,

Eddie

Posted by: Mary Shortridge Jun 4 2010, 03:06 PM

Nothing seems as bad as when something bad happens to a loved one, and to a child....I cannot imagine the pain.
But you are in the thoughts and prayers of many. It will help hold you up. God bless your family!

Posted by: Bruce Hinds Jun 4 2010, 03:10 PM

Dear Doug,
You have the hearts of all of us and I know prayers from so many that may feel timid about speaking out. However, believing in God is all about positive thoughts. Please have faith that He will help you all through this.
Bruce
PS it was at time like this that many of us became believers....

Posted by: Eric_Shea Jun 4 2010, 03:21 PM

Tears fill a fathers eyes as he reads this...

Positive thoughts coming her way each and every day!

My girls are my life. I can't even imagine what you're going through.

Posted by: McMark Jun 4 2010, 03:23 PM

Positive thoughts.

Posted by: BKLA Jun 4 2010, 03:26 PM

Doug -

A quick note to give you hope and a blessing. My mother was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian in 2001. She went through chemo and other therapy, and survived! She had great support from her kids and her extended family. I can tell you from experience that a positive attitude (along with the right Doctor), can make a huge difference!

You have our prayers!

Posted by: ConeDodger Jun 4 2010, 03:27 PM

I can't imagine your fear and pain. Positive thoughts sent Rachel's way...

Posted by: swl Jun 4 2010, 03:30 PM

Doug,
This is a tremendous challenge for you and Rachel - my heart goes out to both of you.

I agree that positive thinking can do amazing things so you and Rachel need to make up your mind right now that you will beat this thing. Be your own advocates - don't trust the system. Read, demand information, make them investigate all possibilities. Our medical community is full of good skilled people but sometimes they are overwhelmed and need a push in the right direction.

We are here to support you.

Posted by: DNHunt Jun 4 2010, 03:30 PM

Rachel is in my prayers.

Dave

Posted by: Wannabe 914-6 owner Jun 4 2010, 03:30 PM

Our prayers go out to you and your family, and for a complete and speedy recovery.

Posted by: '73-914kid Jun 4 2010, 03:36 PM

I have a friend who went through the same thing. She beat it, and is finally coming back to school with only 2 weeks left in the school year. With enough positive thinking, and support from others, She'll do the same I'm sure

Rachel will be in my prayers. I cannot imagine having to endure this..
-Ethan

Posted by: tat2dphreak Jun 4 2010, 03:39 PM

very sorry to hear this you and her will be in our thoughts

Posted by: Bartlett 914 Jun 4 2010, 03:45 PM

Best wishes to the both of you.

Posted by: rick 918-S Jun 4 2010, 03:49 PM

I'm sorry to read this today. With our thoughts and prays from some I hope to read about her small victories leading to a winning message down the road. Positive thoughts and a fighting spirit are real medicine. Continue life as you would otherwise. Don't let cancer dominate you, dominate the cancer.

Posted by: Coy Jun 4 2010, 03:50 PM

That is horrible news. Our prayers go out to you and your family, for a complete and very speedy recovery. I wish that there was more we could do.

Best wishes to you both!

Posted by: buhs914 Jun 4 2010, 04:03 PM

That's horrible! My family and I have spent many years supporting cancer societies and I wish you the best of luck in this fight! Anything is possible and this thing can be beaten! Never lose faith and never stop fighting.

Posted by: KaptKaos Jun 4 2010, 04:08 PM

Prayers sent. Be strong, she needs you.

Joe (father of 3 daughters)

Posted by: Ian Stott Jun 4 2010, 04:21 PM

Lots of positive thoughts coming at you from Moncton, I have 2 daughters and I dote on them both as I am sure you do to. Tough journey ahead for you guys, stay positive and keep coming here for support whenever you can, this is a great bunch and you are right about thinking positive.

Ian Stott
Moncton

Posted by: mepstein Jun 4 2010, 04:24 PM

Usually I donate anonymously but this time I’m hoping someone sees what I’m doing and copies me. It’s terrible what you and your daughter are going through and even harder when money becomes an issue. I’ve seen 50+ guys get together to get a discount on steel flares for their cars and even more to put together a yellow car in memory of someone who passed away so I’m hoping a can get others to follow me when I send $100 your way. Please PM your address so I can send a check asap. If the group wishes, I will also collect checks made out to Doug Armstrong and forward as they arrive. This board is a huge community of great people and here’s a great opportunity to help someone who is truly in need of our support. Mark Epstein

Posted by: tdiddy Jun 4 2010, 04:29 PM

Positive vibes going your way!

Posted by: hot_shoe914 Jun 4 2010, 04:37 PM

QUOTE(mepstein @ Jun 4 2010, 05:24 PM)

Posted by: Gint Jun 4 2010, 04:37 PM

QUOTE(tracks914 @ Jun 4 2010, 01:18 PM)

Posted by: mepstein Jun 4 2010, 04:43 PM

QUOTE(hot_shoe914 @ Jun 4 2010, 06:37 PM)

QUOTE(mepstein @ Jun 4 2010, 05:24 PM)

Usually I donate anonymously but this time I’m hoping someone sees what I’m doing and copies me. It’s terrible what you and your daughter are going through and even harder when money becomes an issue. I’ve seen 50+ guys get together to get a discount on steel flares for their cars and even more to put together a yellow car in memory of someone who passed away so I’m hoping a can get others to follow me when I send $100 your way. Please PM your address so I can send a check asap. If the group wishes, I will also collect checks made out to Doug Armstrong and forward as they arrive. This board is a huge community of great people and here’s a great opportunity to help someone who is truly in need of our support. Mark Epstein

You are so right Mark. I easily spent three times that to go play with the yellow car. Put me down for $100 also as I have two daughters of my own. I will send it to you Mark as I already have your address.

Shoe

Posted by: Joe Owensby Jun 4 2010, 04:46 PM

I am so sorry to hear your bad news. I have two daughters, and could not imagine the pain. I send my positive thoughts, and prayers for a quick recovery. JoeO

Posted by: rfuerst911sc Jun 4 2010, 04:56 PM

My family sends all the positive energy we can generate to you and your daughter ! Good luck and stay as upbeat as you can.

Posted by: Thomas J Bliznik Jun 4 2010, 04:56 PM

Rachel, my prayer's to you for a complete recovery. God Bless you and your family. Please keep us informed of your progress.

Tom

Posted by: Millerwelds Jun 4 2010, 05:05 PM

Abundant Positive thoughts. She WILL beat this.

Posted by: Todd Enlund Jun 4 2010, 05:12 PM

Positive thoughts, strength and determination will win. I've seen it many times. I know she can do it, and everyone can help. My thoughts are there for Rachel.

Posted by: azbill Jun 4 2010, 05:33 PM

Rachel, you are in my daily paryers. Have positive thoughts. You will bet the cancer

Posted by: tracks914 Jun 4 2010, 05:34 PM

The response here in two hours has been awesome and I really appreciate every thing said here (positive thoughts and prayers) but please hold on to your money. (at least for now) (shedding a tear.....)
My wife and I have good jobs, good benefit packages and up here in Canada ALL our health care is paid for. Like a true 914 owner I have always watched my money and have a fair nest egg put away for this type of thing. My wife will be taking an unpaid leave of absence for a few months but even that won't hurt us much in the short term. The biggest expenses I foresee are Hotels, gas and meals while on the road but within a month or so most of her Chemo should be done here in Timmins.
If this thing grinds on for a year or more I can see it taking it's toll but the short term outlook is still OK. The Dr's say germ cell ovarian cancer responds quite well to Chemo and if all goes right (fingers crossed) she should be cancer free within a year. (they also remind, nothings for certain and there are many things that "could" go wrong but to stay positive and plan one day at a time)
Your generosity is overwhelming and as in the past this club just blows me away.

Posted by: tracks914 Jun 4 2010, 05:38 PM

BTW, my '72 has been for sale for a few weeks now so I was planning on selling it before the bad news. I wasn't selling it because I NEED the money, I'm selling it because I don't NEED 2 914's and the money will come in handy. This way the car was just an investment that I am cashing in on now.

Posted by: mepstein Jun 4 2010, 05:53 PM

I'm very glad to hear your finances are good. I know you didn't post to ask for money. I hope you will still accept my gift. If not for things you need, then for extras for your daughter. What 16 year old girl can't use some extra money for shopping? Thanks and best wishes, Mark

Posted by: spare time toys Jun 4 2010, 06:00 PM

I have put you guys on our prayer list at ktfmissions.com

Posted by: 76-914 Jun 4 2010, 06:04 PM

I haven't said a prayer in years, until now. I just asked the old man to take a little bit of all us and give it to Rachel. I raised 2 daughters. God bless.

Posted by: Pat Garvey Jun 4 2010, 06:18 PM

Like some others, I rarely pray. Did so tonight to the Big Guy.

Janice & I were never fortunate to have children, but we hold our nephews, nieces, grand-nephews and grand-nieces close to our hearts. We cannot even closely share your feelings, though we feel horrible. Nevertheless, major posi-feelings are sent your way.

Rachel - you have a special person in your Dad.

Our best wishes are sent your way. Stay the course!
Pat

Posted by: Tom Jun 4 2010, 06:32 PM

Doug,
Positive thoughts coming your way every day. Stay positive for your daughter and yourselves, you will beat this. My wife is OK after 1 1/2 years, all tests good. It was tough on both of us, but the chemo paid off.
Tom

Posted by: TonyAKAVW Jun 4 2010, 06:58 PM

Posted by: Cheapsnake Jun 4 2010, 07:00 PM

You have all the positive thoughts we can muster and maybe even a prayer or two for good measure. Rachel, we need you here.

Tom & Sandi

Posted by: 914Sixer Jun 4 2010, 07:52 PM

Hang in there. I have been through breast and colon cancer with my wife. She is still here today. You must be willing to think outside of the medical box and look at different options. Chemo is legalized poison. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Posted by: championgt1 Jun 4 2010, 08:26 PM

Prayers sent your way. I can't even imagine.

Rachel, beat this thing and keep us all posted.

Get well soon!

Posted by: Lennies914 Jun 4 2010, 08:26 PM

I've already said the first of many prayers and positive thoughts for your daughter and your family. Stay strong and positive.
Please post updates as to the progress of Rachel's recovery.

Posted by: 9146986 Jun 4 2010, 08:51 PM

Doug and Rachel, you are in our prayers. The advances in care are modern miracles. A double helping of hope from us to you!

Posted by: Dr Evil Jun 4 2010, 09:01 PM

Hey Doug,

You have a good out look. Luckily it is a teratoma and as your onco said, they respond well to chemo typically. Stay positive. This, too, shall pass. Try not to freak out (I dont know how, but try ). If I can be of help to you, feel free to PM me for my cell #. I like answering medical questions

Tell Rachel to take care and stay positive. She looks like a beautiful girl

Posted by: MrKona Jun 4 2010, 09:14 PM

Doug,

So sorry to hear this new. Remember there is a big community here wishing your entire the family the best of luck and support.

- Bryan

Posted by: montoya 73 2.0 Jun 4 2010, 09:24 PM

I have two daughters 19 and 20! The oldest is last to leave the nest and thats going to be next week! I can't even fathom to think what I would do or how I would act if one of mine was told this from their doctor. You seem to be taking things in good stride at this stressful time, Your an inspiration for me!

I'm sorry to hear about your situation Rachael! It's all about positive thoughts and doing what needs to be done! My wife sends her prayers and I send my words of wisdom. Stay strong young lady and you shall beat this!

Posted by: BMXerror Jun 4 2010, 11:01 PM

Sorry for the news. Just keep it upbeat. She's young and strong, and you've got HUGE backing from us if you need it. We've seen the -World step up before, and we will here if need be. Let us know if we can help.
Mark D.

Posted by: RJMII Jun 5 2010, 12:03 AM

Sorry to hear of the news. I hope for the best for you. I don't really know what I can do from here, but positive thoughts and vibes headed your way.

Posted by: BiG bOgGs Jun 5 2010, 05:28 AM

Positive thoughts, wishes and prayers for you and your daughter.

Please keep us up to date as you feel comfortable.

My daughter is five, and thinking about this just rocks my world.

Jim

Posted by: Vacca Rabite Jun 5 2010, 06:32 AM

The very best of luck from my family to yours.
Zach

Posted by: zymurgist Jun 5 2010, 06:54 AM

Sorry to hear this... but as other posters said, never give up and stay positive. Doing my best to send some positive vibes your way.

Posted by: 396 Jun 5 2010, 07:32 AM

Sorry to hear..I wish your daughter the best in fighting this C thing.
I currently know of two women that are going through breast C treatment.

ALL THE BEST

Posted by: balljoint Jun 5 2010, 07:47 AM

All kinds of positive thoughts for your daughter and your family, coming from Milton, Ontario. If we can be of some help here in the province let me know.

Posted by: tdgray Jun 7 2010, 08:33 AM

Very sorry to hear this.. my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Posted by: treborzerimar Jun 7 2010, 09:27 AM

Your family will make it through this....... sending all my best thoughts.

Posted by: narino Jun 7 2010, 12:00 PM

Doug, I'm very sorry to hear your news. It's crazy to think someone so young would be diagnosed with such a terrible disease. In the last couple years I've had an alarming amount of young friends battle and beat this monster.

Wishing you and your family the best.

Posted by: Root_Werks Jun 7 2010, 12:12 PM

Posted by: 6freak Jun 7 2010, 12:39 PM

Bummer .....Can`t even fathom what that must be like ..good thoughts head`n your way stay positive

Posted by: jcambo7 Jun 7 2010, 12:45 PM

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your daughter! I am sorry to hear this.

Posted by: rascobo Jun 7 2010, 12:47 PM

Doug,

I jokingly refer to myself as 'queezi- religous', but I know I don't know everything. Lots of studies of the power of prayer and positive thinking claim a measurable results. So what the hell, I figure We have close to 16,000 members who are all pulling for Her (doubt there are many churches with congregations that big).

And Rachel,

Hang in there darlin', a lot of progress made the last few years has made this beatable. Believe me when I tell You, that although few of us have met You, we all love You and our sending our energy Your way.

And finally, don't forget to find a reason to laugh. If need be I'll even post a picture of myself in my car where I overheard the following remark made by a teen to his friends oogling my ride at a crosswalk "Man, I can't wait till I'm old and fat so I can drive a car that nice!"

Posted by: JRust Jun 7 2010, 01:28 PM

Doug your family is in my prayers. It is tough seeing your child suffer through anything. I had to spend some time at Dornbechers childrens hosptial with my oldest girl years back. Scariest time in my life. Tough not being able to fix something & just rely on a stranger to do so. Luckily her stay was short & they got her all fixed up.
Cancer is a scary thing to be sure. Be strong for your daughter. Amazing how in situations like this many times the sick child is the strongest of us all. Just be the rock you have been to her all these years . It will all work out in the end. Let Rachael know we are all behind her. We'll be rooting, praying & sending many get well wishes her way

Posted by: davep Jun 7 2010, 03:01 PM

Wow, just catching up on this. So sorry to hear of the problem. Where is she going for treatment now? The good news is that the success rate with cancer is over 50% and getting better.

Posted by: fiid Jun 7 2010, 03:48 PM

Sorry to hear this news. Positive thoughts & vibes coming your way. Stay strong and fight it all the way.

Posted by: tracks914 Jun 7 2010, 06:42 PM

Dave: she is being treated in the Sudbury Regional Cancer Center. It's only 3+ hours from here.

Thanks all for your kind words, positive thoughts and support.

Posted by: carr914 Jun 7 2010, 06:51 PM

Doug & Rachel, Stay Positive, you will beat this.

My prayers are with you both.

Here is some interesting reading
http://www.curenaturalicancro.com/

all the best,
T.C.

Posted by: sww914 Jun 7 2010, 07:23 PM

I've been through a ton of medical problems with my boy (13) as well. 3 leg surgeries in 6 months that we're in the middle of now, but nothing life threatening lately. I wish I had something really good to offer you but I don't. I had religion before, I lost it years ago from this, but thinking positive always helps. If you give up, you lose 100% of the time. It helps to talk to other people about it, but only smart people.

I do have something useful to say. A family member recently had cancer reappear. He went on a hardcore anti cancer regime. Serious, serious diet changes amongst other things. The Dr's do their surgery, radiation, chemo, etc., and that's all good but there's a lot of other things that you can do that will also help that they won't do for you. Research and do every single crazy thing that might work. Some of it will help. My father in law went from "you're probably going to die soon" to "we can't find any sign of cancer in your blood" in a few months by doing everything else possible while waiting for the Dr's to decide what they should do.
Also, DO NOT rely only on whatever local bonehead Dr happens to be available. Find the very best and travel there. There is a big difference. My kid would have been dead before he was 2 if we had relied only on the local warm bodies. The very best saved him. He will grow old now.

Posted by: Socalandy Jun 7 2010, 07:24 PM

Positive thoughts coming your way from us!!

Posted by: Don M Jun 7 2010, 08:28 PM

Doug, what a beautiful young lady.... my wife and I are hopefull that this will be nothing more than a bump in her long and happy road of life.

Posted by: slash5 Jun 7 2010, 10:14 PM

i wish you the best from ny

Posted by: elwood-914 Jun 7 2010, 10:29 PM

I had cancer, so I know, everyone needs to be positive.
Prayers sent miss Rachel.

Posted by: Lou W Jun 7 2010, 10:58 PM

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Posted by: Gary Jun 7 2010, 11:02 PM

Doug,

As father of two daughters, I feel for you. Prayers sent on Rachel's behalf.

G.