Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Thank you!

Wow, I leave in less than a week for Mexico for the MS Liberation treatment. I can't believe how quickly time has passed since Nolin and I decided we were going to commit to having this procedure done. I want to take this time to thank each of you for your contribution to my cause. Whether it was though financial support, helping to brainstorm and organize events, spreading the word about what I'm up to, donating a silent auction item or bidding on Silent Auction items, every bit has made it possible for this trip and procedure to take place and I am very grateful.

We leave on Monday (Sept. 6) and I will be updating my blog as to how things are going. Keep the positive healing energy flowing!

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

I was just wondering....

It's funny, I've heard, read and watched so much lately about MS and this "Liberation" procedure. I think I just started to assume that everyone knows what it's all about and is just as clear as I am. Then I talked to a friend who had a whole bunch of questions and I realized that there is still a lot that I have not shared that many people may be wondering about.

What results do you expect after returning?
I really don't know what to "expect". Everyone sees different results. At this point, I don't even know if I have any narrowing in my veins. When I get to Sanoviv Medical Institute I will undergo a series of diagnostic tests. One of which will be a Doppler scan. This will show if there is a narrowing in the veins. How much blockage, however, will not be known until the procedure is performed.
The great thing about Sanoviv Medical Institute is that their 8 day program includes a LOT more than just the Liberation treatment. It also includes an individualized rehabilitation and nutrition program, Chiropractic treatments, Ozone therapy, dental diagnostics as well as a completely organic diet throughout our stay. So...the way I see it all this other stuff is going to have a positive impact on my health and my body's ability to heal.

What results do you expect?
People have seen varying results. Some have noted increased mobility, less fatigue, increased energy, no heat sensitivity etc. Some people have noticed changes immediately and other noticed mild changes over a period of weeks or months. Everyone is different. For this reason, I am trying not to have any expectations. Any improvement at all would be a huge blessing and worth the time and money.


What if the veins close up again?
Well...this could happen. They could also just stay open and all symptoms disappear. We really can't predict the future. So why try...
The reality is that there is a lot of really harsh drugs out there that don't actually claim to DO anything except "may reduce the number and severity of attacks" (which says nothing) and yet many people continue to take these drugs and the medical community continues to promote them.
If I see results for myself out of doing this procedure, and yet the veins narrow again, I would most likely do the procedure again. It would not mean that the procedure didn't have positive impacts, it would simple mean that there is still a root cause yet to be discovered that's causing narrowing in these veins.


How do they perform the surgical procedure?
A catheter is inserted through the groin and moves up to the left and right jugular veins in the neck. The small balloon attached to the catheter expands the vein and allows the blockage to clear returning normal blood flow. A stent is put in place only if the vein continues to collapse. This is pre-approved by the patient and only done if absolutely necessary.

This video gives a very comprehensive look at Sanoviv and the work they do. Click Here to see the Video
It's an amazing video and well worth a quick peak.

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Silent Auction a Success

Our Silent auction was a success raising about $5000 towards our goal! I hope everyone had fun with the bidding process and managed to scoop up a great deal!

Congratulations to all our winners!

We are less than 2 weeks away... YEA!!!!

Monday, August 9, 2010

Video of Holly's MS symptoms before Liberation treatment.

I decided that it would be a good idea to get a video record of my current physical abilities. This will allow me to visually compare if there is any changes after the procedure. I also saw this as an opportunity to share with everyone a little bit more as to how this disease impacts my daily life.

You can check out the videos on Youtube.

Holly's MS Before Video

Holly's MS Before Video part 2

4 Weeks until we go to Sanoviv...

and I'm feeling...hummm...nervous, excited, hopeful, anxious. Really, it depends on the moment and usually it's all these feelings at the same time. Yes, I'm sure I'm a treat to live with right now.

I hear amazing stories of recovery and relief of symptoms which have me excited and eager to go and yet, I know the reality is that this is NOT a magic solution. I plan to focus the next 4 weeks on preparing my body to be in optimal condition for the best results. Whatever that looks like.

To me, this means eating better and taking my supplements (vitamins). Not that I eat terrible right now (I'm a Registered Holistic Nutritionist), however, with a young toddler and lack of energy, I could definitely eat better....or at least more regularly. I don't weigh very much and with running after Logan and only getting in half my meals, I will not gain weight unless I'm committed to my own health.

I just went to my chiropractor this morning. Dr. Matovich works out of the Natural Way Chiropractic in Calgary. They use an very gentle non-invasive approach. My hope is that this will help my body get as aligned as possible before my CCSVI treatment.

That just leaves the emotional/spiritual side. The biggest part of this means setting Logan up for success while I'm away. I haven't been away from him for more than a few hours since he was born. I know this will be WAY harder on me than on Logan. :O) His 2 grandmas and 1 auntie will be taking turns looking after him while we are away. I'm going to leave him with others a couple of times this month to see how we do. (by "we" I really mean me.)

All in all, I think I'm ready for the big experience. Our fundraising is going very well. The Silent Auction is already getting a lot of attention and there is still a week to go. If you have not already checked it out, the auction items are well worth a view! Holly's Online Auction

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Online Silent Auction is Open for Bids!

Our Online Silent Auction for my MS Fundraiser has begun! Check out the unique and high value items that are being offered including airfare for 2 to San Francisco and Vegas, an Apple iPod and a Pin Up Magazine Photo Session!

The Auction will be open until August 17th. It's easy to register to bid. So log on and snag a GREAT deal on some amazing prizes!

Free free to pass this along to others in your circle that may be interested.

Holly's Online Silent Auction Link

Thank you for your continued support!