This article explores Angie Mentink's personal journey, highlighting her experiences with cancer, treatment, and subsequent weight loss. It delves into the emotional and physical challenges she faced, offering insights into her resilience and the support she received.
The Initial Shock: A Cancer Diagnosis
Like many, Angie Mentink admits to avoiding regular doctor visits, a decision driven by fear. During a routine exam, her doctor's pause and concerned look triggered a wave of fear. "It's cancer," she thought, a chilling realization that mentally checked her out of the rest of the appointment. The diagnosis forced her to confront her mortality, a stark and unsettling experience.
Surveillance and the Return of Fear
Following her initial treatment, Angie entered a period of surveillance, undergoing quarterly tests to monitor for any signs of recurring cancer cells. While seemingly routine, this phase was emotionally taxing. Despite telling herself she would be fine if the cancer returned, the fear of recurrence loomed large. In 2001, four years after her initial treatment, her fears were realized when doctors discovered abnormal lymph nodes in her abdomen. This news was crushing, leading her to seek a second opinion from Dr. Craig Nichols, who had previously treated Lance Armstrong.
The Search for the Best Treatment
Confused, shocked, and disoriented, Angie sought the best possible care. Dr. Nichols recommended a specialized surgeon, Dr. Richard Foster at Indiana University, renowned for testicular cancer treatment. He emphasized the importance of this surgery, setting in motion a series of events that would significantly impact Angie's life.
Surgery and a Glimmer of Hope
Angie underwent surgery, resulting in a significant incision scar from her belly button to her breast plate. During the procedure, 33 lymph nodes were removed. Fortunately, only one node contained cancer, and it was not a recurrence of the original cancer. This was a moment of immense relief and gratitude for Angie.
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Chemotherapy and Unintended Weight Loss
Two months after surgery, Angie began chemotherapy treatment at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA). This marked the beginning of a new journey, one filled with physical and emotional challenges. One of the side effects of the treatment was hair loss. Angie recalls waking up one morning to find most of her hair on her pillow. In addition to hair loss, Angie experienced significant weight loss, dropping between 20 to 25 pounds. The side effects of chemotherapy limited her ability to leave the house, except for follow-up doctor's appointments. These appointments became a lifeline, providing much-needed social interaction. Angie spent most of her days alone, either shuffling around her house or resting on the couch, staring out the window.
"Chemo Christmas"
The chemotherapy coincided with the holiday season, a time Angie now refers to as "Chemo Christmas." Despite the difficult circumstances, her community provided unwavering support. A relative brought the family a Christmas tree, but even the simple act of decorating it was exhausting. Angie had to take frequent breaks, resting on the couch between placing ornaments. Her last chemo appointment was in January.
The Importance of Awareness and Support
Angie and her wife, a cancer survivor, actively support the American Cancer Society (ACS) to raise awareness for early detection and prevention. They recognize the lack of awareness surrounding cancers that affect men, often due to societal stigma.
The Role of IL-23 in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
While seemingly unrelated to Angie's story, research on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) sheds light on the complexities of the immune system and inflammation. Studies have shown that IL-23, a cytokine, plays a crucial role in chronic intestinal inflammation, while IL-12 does not. IL-23 activates a subset of memory T cells, leading to the production of proinflammatory mediators like IL-17 and IL-6.
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