THRIVE

Paul’s Daily Dose - Home for the Holiday

Howdy,

After being hospitalized for 12 days at MSK, being home for the Holiday, is something I will never take for granted again. Please don’t get me wrong, all the staff, be it nurses, housekeeping, phlebotomists, room service personnel, and doctors were exceptional! However, there is just no replacement for sleeping in one’s own bed and all the comforts that it brings. The one thing that made my stay remarkably tolerable was that Gay was with me 24/7. Talk about a trooper, here I am sleeping on a super deluxe hospital bed and Gay is sleeping on a chair that has a seat cushion that extends. (She is also delighted to be sleeping on a bed too).

I want to emphasize again the incredible results of my procedure. Prior to surgery, the game plan was to get as much of the visible tumors as possible and those that were unresectable would continued to be treated with chemo. However, my “A team” of doctors “GOT THEM ALL”. My doctor at MSK is one of a few people in the world who would have attempted such a difficult procedure. As he says, operating on the liver is like operating on Jell-O (it’s a moving target and very fragile). I will continue to take my chemo and be closely monitored, but I can now say with incredible joy, “I am NED (no evidence of disease). This is a glorious Thanksgiving.

Please join us in counting our blessings and giving thanks. More importantly, please pause today and give thanks for the wonderful things you enjoy.

Thrive on,
Paul

Paul's Daily Dose

Howdy,

“He’s back”……..well sort of. I have exchanged my IV, Oxygen, and blood tests for emails, WindowsXP, and wifi. If all goes well, I hope to be Thriving at home by tomorrow or Saturday.

All my doctors are very, very pleased with my surgery! My vital signs, stomach and liver functions continue to improve, and I get stronger everyday. My pathology report came back yesterday. As a result of my shrinkage from Gleevec (my chemotherapy), and this past week’s aggressive surgery, I am now NED (no evidence of disease)! THIS IS GREAT NEWS. Next week, I will resume taking Gleevec, and let this miracle drug continue to work its’ wonders (I hope for many years come). In addition, for the next 6-8 weeks, I will be restricted to minimal physical activity, and once my medical “A-Team” permits, I hope to start training for a triathlon 3Q 2008. (Just thinking about training again, is a delight.

Gay and I are so grateful for your most generous support, it’s a wonderful blessing.

I Thrive ON!

Paul

Paul's Progress - Eating sorbet

Hi all,

Paul had a quiet weekend resting. His doctors say his body has just figured out it has 3/4 of a liver to replace so it's busy on the mend. He has been given the greenlight to eat sorbet and we hear oatmeal is just around the corner!.
Thanks for your support, it means a lot to us.
Love
Gay

Paul's Progress - Ice chips and strolls

Hi all,

Paul is doing great. He's been up twice for a little stroll today. He's even advanced to ice chips!

When he's awake I let him know you've sent your regards.  This is very comforting to him (and to me) so thank you all.

Will be in touch,
Gay

Paul's Progress - Out of Recovery

Hi all,

Paul is doing great. He's been moved out of Recovery and is resting comfortably in his room. We've been advised that he's not to have visitors until Friday PM (standard procedure I'm told).

Will keep you posted!

Gay

Paul's Progress - Surgery is over

He's done!

Just had my consultation with Dr. DeMatteo and "there were no suprises". In other words it went very well.

Dr DeMatteo says there's recovery to accomplish before celebrating just yet, but was pleased with the surgery.

So, he's off to Recovery and I'll see him in a couple of hours.

Love,
Gay

Paul's Progress - November 6, 2007 12pm

Mary Ann, our Perioperative Liason, has just reported that Paul is stable and doing well.

They've removed his gall bladder (standard proceedure even when its not problematic), the sections and wedges from the liver and are moving to his stomach.

They had said it would be seven hours but this progress leads me to beleive it will be shorter.  We'll see.

Thank you all for your support. It makes all the difference.

I'll keep you posted!

Love,
Gay

Paul's Daily Dose -Rain Washed

The following story was sent by a dear friend.

Thrive On,

Paul

Rain Washed
Author Unknown

A little girl had been shopping with her Mom in Target. She must have been 6 years old, this beautiful red haired, freckle faced image of innocence. It was pouring outside. The kind of rain that gushes over the top of rain gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout. We all stood there under the awning and just inside the door of the Target.

We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their hurried day. I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of running, splashing so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve from the worries of my day.

The little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught in, "Mom, let's run through the rain," she said. "What?" Mom asked.

"Let's run through the rain!" She repeated.

"No, honey. We'll wait until it slows down a bit," Mom replied.

This young child waited about another minute and repeated, "Mom, let's run through the rain."

"We'll get soaked if we do," Mom said.

"No, we won't, Mom. That's not what you said this morning," the young girl said as she tugged at her Mom's arm.

"This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?"

"Don't you remember? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer, you said, 'If God can get us through this, he can get us through anything!'"

The entire crowd stopped dead silent. I swear you couldn't hear anything but the rain. We all stood silently. No one came or left in the next few minutes. Mom paused and thought for a moment about what she would say. Now some would laugh it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said. But this was a moment of affirmation in a young child's life. A time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith.

"Honey, you are absolutely right. Let's run through the rain. If God let's us get wet, well maybe we just needed washing," Mom said.

Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They held their shopping bags over their heads just in case. They got soaked. But they were followed by a few who screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars.

And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing.

Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions, they can take away your money, and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take away your precious memories... So, don't forget to make time and take opportunities to make memories everyday. To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.

I hope you still take the time to run through the rain.

Paul's Daily Dose

Boo (Happy Halloween),

The “big event” (my surgery) is just around the corner (November 6th). To quote the old song from Peter, Paul & Mary, “well my bags are packed, and I am ready to go”, as I am off to Memorial Sloan-Kettering.

My doctors expect the procedure to take about 6-8 hours and I will be hospitalized for 10-14 days, (I was told there are no awards for getting out early). Then it is onto 4 weeks of bed rest. Hmm, we’ll see how long that lasts, as I know I have to start training and sign up for an event in 2008!

Gay will be on guard at the hospital, and will be reachable via email. (After my procedure, Gay will give an update)

I Thrive on,

Paul

PS. Last night I went to the actual floor where I am staying at Memorial Sloan Kettering to check out the place. They said 16 laps of the floor = 1 mile (that just warms my heart).

Paul's Daily Dose

Howdy,

It was my birthday yesterday and last night I was lamenting to Gay that this is the first time I do not have an athletic event scheduled. For the past 15 years, I have trained for something, be it the NYC Marathon, Pan-Mass Challenge, Mt. Washington Bicycle Hillclimb, Paris-Brest-Paris, AIDS rides and numerous triathlons (yes, I am crazy)!  I guess they have all been preparing me for my most difficult challenge, cancer.

In the past, I have had my wonderful wife Gay, fabulous friends, and a great team of coaches supporting me in my endeavors.  Thankfully, I am able to add an incredibly devoted  A-team of doctors to the list.  I am fully confident that I will again meet this challenge and with everyone’s support, I will continue to Thrive.

My surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, November 6th.. I will be at Memorial Sloan-Kettering, 1275 York Avenue, between 67th and 68th Streets and the Patient Information Desk number is 212-639-7081.

My doctors expect the procedure to take about 5 hours. I will be hospitalized for 7 days and then on 4 weeks of bed rest. Hmm,  we’ll see how long that lasts, as I know I have to start training and sign up for an event in 2008!

I Thrive on,

Paul

Paul’s Daily Dose

Howdy,

After having multiple conferences and deliberations over the last two weeks with my “A-team” of doctors, they have reached a consensus that I should have surgery.  After carefully considering all of the pros and cons, I have decided to accept their recommendation. This was not an easy decision, as they can not fully resect all 15 of my tumors. The strategy is that if the “cancer load” is reduced, I have less of a chance building up resistance to Gleevec; and therefore better survivability.  I am targeting the beginning of November to have the operation; so unfortunately, Paul's Posse will need to wait until the 2008 NYC marathon.

As I have said, cancer sucks, but I Thrive on.

Paul   

Paul's Daily Dose

Howdy, it’s been close to a year since I was diagnosed. I feel great and I am Thriving.

I had PET, CT scans last week, and my doctors are delighted.  The PET scan is negative (completely cold) and the CAT scan shows that my largest liver lesion is in fact smaller on this scan (which is very good news), and the other liver lesions are stable (there are 14 lesions in all). At this time, I do not have a consensus with respect to undergoing major surgery or “Stay the Course” (hmm….this is one case where it might make sense).  Over the next few weeks, we’ll have a conference call and sort this out. Stay tuned.

I have the Mighty Hamptons Triathlon this coming weekend and continue to train for the NYC marathon.  Like last year’s marathon, we are assembling a group of “tag along” runners (Paul’s Posse).  Each runner will relay with me from the start to the finish.  As a relay, no one person has to run any great distance (and trust me I won’t be going very fast). For those not tagging along, we’ll have a “cheering point” on 1st Avenue.

We will have Paul’s Posse running jerseys and after the race, and we’ll meet at a local wine bar bistro for a post race celebration.

If you are in New York City and would you like to be part of “Paul’s Posse” or join us for the post race? If so, let me know so we can plan accordingly.

As one of my doctors said after completing the Pan-Mass Challenge, let’s “Posse up”.

The following poem was sent to me last year just before I was diagnosed. I may have shared it with you before, but I thought it is worth revisiting.

(Be sure to read it all the way through)

Around the corner I have a friend,
In this great city that has no end,
Yet the days go by and weeks rush on,
And before I know it, a year is gone.

And I never see my old friends face,
For life is a swift and terrible race,
He knows I like him just as well,
As in the days when I rang his bell.

And he rang mine but we were younger then,
And now we are busy, tired men.
Tired of playing a foolish game,
Tired of trying to make a name.

"Tomorrow" I say! "I will call on Jim
Just to show that I'm thinking of him."
But tomorrow comes and tomorrow goes,
And distance between us grows and grows.

Around the corner, yet miles away,
"Here's a telegram sir," "Jim died today."
And that's what we get and deserve in the end.
Around the corner, a vanished friend.

Remember to always say what you mean. If you love someone, tell them. Don't be afraid to express yourself. Reach out and tell someone what they mean to you.

Because when you decide that it is the right time it might be too late. Seize the day. Never have regrets. And most importantly, stay close to your friends and family, for they have  helped make you the person that you are today.

Thrive on,

Paul

Paul's Daily Dose - August 7, 2007

The following is an email I received this morning from one of my docs.

Paul

Dear Pals o' the Posse,

Words can never express for me the experience of riding with you all.  This is not just the "endorphin high" speaking now, either - this PMC was a deeply moving and truly inspiring time.  I never, ever, EVER in a million years thought that I would be able to do more than the distance of the first two water stops along the route on the first day alone!  But the commitment of this Posse in support of Paul gave me new insights into pushing oneself for others.  The energy was awesome (I feel like my mitochondria grew their own mitochondria to provide energy I never thought possible).  Most importantly, I cannot thank enough the elite and highly trained athletes who rode with me, purposefully dropping down MANY notches from their own native pace, to ensure my survival!   Mark Epstein went way above and beyond the call of duty to ride VERY slowly with me the first day and to be reassuring, calm (despite my wanting to bail at the lunch stop after a near-faint), and always supportive.  On day two, everyone seemed to help me out in so many different ways, with my memory especially noting Paul, Chris, Geoff, Carolyn, John, Laura’s unflinching dedication and strength, and the nearly supernatural powers of Ron to help me move up a couple of hills. 

I also cannot say enough about how impressed I am that Gary came from NYC to be a part of all this.  A real testimony to his character, generosity and commitment to Paul as well.

Medicine is, at heart, a service profession, and seeing you all serve Paul as such a wonderful community of family, friends, and colleagues helped me to reconnect on the deepest level possible with that spirit of service. 

The energy of this event has been a transforming experience in the most positive way possible.  The old adage may be overused, but it is nonetheless true:  a small group of committed people can truly change the world.  Let’s keep changing it for the better.  This experience has changed me in such a positive way, and for that I am truly thankful. 

My team at Dana-Farber is already making plans for how they will participate next year.  The first weekend in August is blocked out in my calendar already for 2008 for next year’s PMC – hope to see you all there.

Posse up!

Be well,

George

George D. Demetri, MD

Director, Ludwig Center
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School
Boston, MA USA
www.dfci.org

Executive Director for Clinical and Translational Research
Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research
Zurich, Switzerland and New York, USA
www.licr.org

Paul's Daily Dose - PMC recap

Dear Posse Members and Supporters,

I want to express my appreciation to everyone for being such enthusiastic members of Paul’s Posse. Throughout this weekend, people came up to me to say, “Thank you for doing this.” But it is really me who should be thanking all of you. I have been riding Pan-Mass for 10 years now. But this year, your energy, your generosity and your spirit made this an unforgettable, life-changing event for me and Gay. And for that I say, “Thank you all.”

These are just a few of the images that will stay with me from Pan-Mass 2007:
• Being stuck in a party bus with no air conditioning, but all of us continuing to smile and laugh through the heat.
• Bedding down in the Super 8 Motel with those strange smells.
• Rolling out with you and thousands of other “Thrivers” on Saturday morning.
• Squeezing into the barracks at Mass Maritime on Saturday night and getting to know each other very, very closely.
• Rising in the pitch-dark Sunday morning to see a glorious sunrise riding across the Bourne Bridge.
• Seeing the men who are helping to save my life, Dr. George Demetri and Dr. Gary Schwartz, inspire us all by pedaling every mile.
• The sight of Posse members always going out of their way to help each other on the road.
• Rolling out as one huge, blue ocean of Posse jerseys from the final rest stop on Sunday.
• Flying into Provincetown after 192 miles, with all of us feeling like we could ride another 20 miles.
• Seeing Gay at the finish line and getting one of the best hugs ever.

We started out as a Posse, but by the end of Sunday, we had become something much more. We had become a family. I will never forget the weekend we shared together, and I intend to share many, many, many more with you…because I am an Ironman.

Paul

Laura Ingraham radio interviews 8/3/07 and 8/6/07 listen here

Download panmasschallenge.mp3

Paul's Daily Dose

  Download boston_globe_pmc_schaye_8_1_2007_front_page.jpg Download boston_globe_pmc_schaye_8_1_2007_back_page.jpg

For those who didn't see the actual Globe story here's a copy. My friends George Lange & Marc Asnin took the photos. They did a great job.

Off to the PMC........The Posse will all Thrive!

Paul

Paul's Daily Dose

Wow, I am blown away by the all the emails and support.  I am inspired.

You are Ironmen!

Paul

(Don't forget the auction) auction link

Paul's Daily Dose

Howdy,

Yikes, the Pan Mass Challenge is right around the corner and Paul’s Posse is 50+ incredible members. The team has already raised in excess of $300K!!. The auction for the Custom Serotta Bike, Phil Collins VIP concert tickets, and Equinox Membership is now live and will conclude in 8 days! Click here for auction link

In addition, today’s Boston Globe profiles The Posse. Boston Globe, Paul's Posse -  August 1, 20077 Click here for story

Tomorrow, at 10:30am, The Posse will be featured on the Laura Ingraham’s radio program. (Check your local listings).

Now, all have to do is ride the 200miles.  That’s no sweat - I am an Ironman!

Paul

Paul's Posse/PMC Schedule

Howdy,

The following is an UPDATED schedule for Paul's Posse events and the upcoming PMC Ride, please read carefully.

Paul's Posse/PMC Schedule

Thursday, August 2nd
6:00pm - 8:00pm Paul's Posse Cocktail Party at Signature Cycles:
Signature Cycles
80 West End Ave., Second Floor (64th St. and West End Ave.)
(Old 250 West 64th Street entrance)
New York, NY 10023
T (212) 706-0025

(To facilitate our leaving for Sturbridge the next day, please bring your bike for overnight storage and subsequent loading for bike transport Friday morning.)

8:15/8:30pm carbo-loading dinner at Nick & Toni's Cafe, 100 West 67th Street - for those of you attending, we will walk over en masse after the Cocktail reception.

Friday, August 3rd
12:30pm "Party Bus" departs from Signature Cycles (see above address) for Sturbridge, MA. 12:30pm SHARP!!!

2:00pm Depart Westport Train Station for Sturbridge. (We will be making an interim stop at exit 18 Rt. 95, Westport Metro North Train station to pick up the Connecticut riders). The truck carrying the bikes will be following the bus and will stop and load the bikes for those joining us in Connecticut at this same time.

Friday night Sturbridge, MA accommodations. We have rooms at the Sturbridge Host, Super8, and the Auburn Fairfield Inn (PMC provides a shuttle to and from).(NOTE: the majority of you will be sharing a room). Just as a reminder, you are responsible for payment of your Friday night lodging.

Paul's Posse Goodie Bags: If you have not previously received your goodie bag, please look for the Paul's Posse RV (adorned with a large banner) when you arrive in Sturbridge to pick up your goodie bag which includes your member jersey and hat.

PMC Opening Ceremony to be held at the Sturbridge Host Hotel. All Posse members need to in the Hawthorne Room by 7:00pm wearing their Paul's Posse Hat (which you will receive on Friday). At this time you will receive seating and other pertinent information regarding the televising of the Opening Ceremony and the role that Paul's Posse will play.

Saturday, August 4th
Today you should wear the PMC jersey (which you will receive when you register at the PMC). Be sure to pack the Posse jersey and hat in the Saturday night apres ride, Sunday ride and Sunday apres ride clothing luggage. (PMC will transport our bags).

5:00pm. Team Picture at the Memorial by the channel with us wearing our "fresh and clean" Paul's Posse jerseys (which you will receive on Friday).

Just a reminder, if you are staying on Campus at the Mass Maritime Academy. You will need sheets, toiletries and a towel.

Sunday August 5th
On the second day of the ride (Sunday) we will all wear the Paul's Posse Jersey. We will group up at the last water stop and ride in together to the glorious Provincetown finish.

2:30pm "The Party Bus" pick us up at the finish, (bikes will again be transported) and bring us back to NYC (with the interim stop in CT).

Paul's Posse Update-June 27, 2007

Howdy,

I hope you are enjoying your training as much as I am. (Hey, it is about the bike) 

Just want to review some Posse logistics. (You should still review the general logistics for the ride on the PMC site www.pmc.org ) 

Thursday, August 2nd:

Paul’s Posse Cocktail Party at Signature Cycles. 6:00pm – 8:00pm.  Afterwards, we’ll saunter over to a local restaurant (TBD), for a carbo loading dinner.

To facilitate our leaving for Sturbridge the next day, please bring your bike for overnight storage and subsequent loading for bike transport Friday morning.

Signature Cycles
80 West End Ave. ,Second Floor (64th St. and West End Ave.)
(Old 250 West 64th Street entrance)
New York, NY 10023
T (212) 706-0025
View Map | Driving Directions

Friday, August 3rd

12:30pm  “Party Bus” departs from Signature Cycles for Sturbridge, MA. 12:30pm SHARP!!! 
(We will be making in interim stop at exit 18 Rt. 95, Westport Metro North Train station to pick up the Connecticut riders)

2:00pm Depart Westport Train Station for Sturbridge.

Friday night Sturbridge, MA accommodations. As the response has been amazing, we will be very cozy. Some of us will be 3 to a room with a potential need for air mattresses. The Super 8 initially said they would have more rooms available, but that is now up in the air. The owner is back from vacation July 6th, and we will know more then.  We have secured some additional rooms in Auburn at the Fairfield Inn (PMC will have shuttle buses). Once we have a handle on the room situation, we will send out a hotel / roommate assignment sheet.  Just as a reminder, you are responsible for payment of your Friday night lodging.

Saturday, August 4th

The first day of the ride, you should wear the PMC jersey. Be sure to pack the Posse jersey and hat in the Saturday night après ride, Sunday ride and Sunday après ride clothing luggage. (PMC will transport our bags). At the end of the second day, there is a team picture taken wearing our “fresh and clean” Posse Jersey . The second day (Sunday) we’ll all wear the Paul’s Posse Jersey. We will group up at the last water stop and ride in together to the glorious Provincetown finish.

Just a reminder, if you are staying on Campus at the Mass Maritime Academy. You will need sheets, toiletries and a towel. 

Thank you for Thriving along with me,

Paul

Paul's Daily Dose-June 22, 2007

Howdy,

Good news! This week’s PT/CT scan shows the primary lesion is slightly smaller, all the liver lesions cystic, showing treatment effect and none show PET uptake. Lucky me! To quote one of my Dr.’s “the drug response is terrific, we can discuss if any surgical interventions are justified, I expect not now, will be the answer”.  The plan is to have a follow-up scan in the fall. As resistance to Gleevec generally occurs within 2 years, and I am now 9 months on Gleevec, my doctors are considering surgery. If and when I go that route, it will be after the Mighty Hamptons Triathlon, Tour de Pink ( 3-day 200mile cancer ride) and NYC marathon. (Just getting in shape for surgery)

The Pan Mass Challenge is just around the corner. The Thursday night before the Pan-Mass weekend, August 2nd from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Signature Cycles, one of Paul’s Posse sponsors, is hosting a cocktail party for Posse members riders and Non-Posse members. Hey, just about anyone looking for free wine/beer and some munchies is invited.  Afterwards, we’ll saunter over to a local restaurant (TBD), for a carbo loading dinner.

I continue to Thrive!

I am an Ironman,

Paul

Paul’s Daily Dose - June 11, 2007

Howdy,

EagleMan 70.3 Ironman – I finished - Mission Accomplished!

I am knackered!

Whew, I swam 1.2 miles, biked 56 miles and ran (walked too) 13.2 miles. The weather was perfect as the water was calm (for an open water swim), the winds were civilized, the humidity was low, and the sun barely peeked out. Nevertheless, it was hard, as I don’t have the stamina I had pre-drug treatment. However, I was there as a completer not competitor.   

Last week, I gave a speech about thriving to 600 fellow Pan-Mass Challenge riders. I am not sure if I got a standing ovation or they were just getting up to leave. There are now 50+ extraordinary members of Paul’s Posse riding the Pan-Mass Challenge this summer and fund raising is in full swing. We have a loose end, and that is the transportation of the bicycles from NYC to MA and back. If you know where we can get a truck/driver please let me know.

We have a great looking cycling jersey designed by Gay. (You can see it on the below)

Next week is significant as my doctor wants to have a PC/CT scan and possibly consider surgery, as I am now 9 months into Gleevec and the efficacy could decline. He has said in the past, “operating is an all or nothing proposition”. Stay tuned.

I am Thriving I am an Ironman,

Paul

Paul’s Posse Posting for the PMC May 18, 2007

Howdy,

I hope you have been able to log some miles.  I have been doing loops weekdays in Central Park and hitting the open road on weekends.

The WSJ article continues to generate interest in the Posse, so much so, that I have been asked to talk about Thriving on cancer and Paul’s Posse.

The first talk I am giving is to the breast cancer organization called Saving Second Base (http://www.savingsecond.com/event.html).  I will be speaking on Wednesday, May 30th at 7:30pm in NYC. They will have cocktails, appetizers and a silent auction.

In addition, I will be a speaker at the Pan Mass Challenge Heavy Hitter event Wednesday, June 6th, at 6:30pm in Boston.

If you are around for either, please drop by so I will have someone to talk with.

Below are some logistical details for the ride:

No Man Left Behind Policy
As you know, we are a Posse of riders of various abilities. The Pan Mass has three groups at the start according to riding speed. I will be starting in the slowest group and invite other experience riders to join me in supporting the less experienced members of the Posse. Furthermore, in the interest of a no man left behind policy, Posse members of similar ability are encouraged to group up, and my personal desire is that nobody is left riding alone or stuck beside the road with a mechanical problem.

Friday Bus to Sturbridge
We are departing from Signature Cycles at 1:00pm sharp! I suggest getting there by 12:30pm to insure your bike is loaded on to the truck and if you need to do any last minute shopping.  In addition, mechanics will be available if you have any last minute emergency repairs. The interim stop (not sure the time yet) for CT riders will be the Westport train station at exit 17 on RT 95. The police recommend the railroad parking lot because a) no charge on the weekends and b) there is surveillance on the property by both police and MTA.

Friday night lodging
We have rooms at the Super 8 and the Sturbridge Host for everyone in the Posse! However, we are going to be cozy this year. As we are now 50+ riders and support, some of us we’ll be in triples. I’ll be send out the room assignment list shortly. To expedite check in, we will have “Room Captains” who will be responsible for registration, collecting the lodging monies (approx $70pp), and handing out keys at the hotel.

Saturday night lodging
For those staying in dorms at the Mass Maritime Academy you will need sheets and a towel. We hope to have the Posse in the same building. (The PMC will transport our luggage).

The Paul’s Posse logo and cycling jersey has been designed. Check out www.paulsposse.com. I have also attached PDF’s of the jersey, logo and fund raising flyer.

The only loose end that I can think of at this time is the transportation of the bicycles to and from NYC & CT.  If you know where we can get a truck/driver please let me know.

I am Thriving, I am an Ironman,

Paul

Download jersey_front.pdf

Download jersey_back.pdf

Download pauls_flyer_517b.pdf

Howdy,

Mission Accomplished! (Though at times, it did feel as if it was Mission Impossible).  This past weekend, I competed in the St. Anthony’s Triathlon in Florida.  Few races have thrown so many obstacles in my way, but I swam, cycled and ran to the end. My nutrition and consistent training got me through it, but not at a blistering pace. My heart rate increased, as the reserves in my muscles decreased. In the last leg of the race, I cringed as a 70-year-old woman ran past me. (I’ll get her next year). However, I was not there to win, I was there to finish, and that is exactly what I did!

There are now 50 extraordinary members of Paul’s Posse riding the Pan-Mass Challenge this summer and fund raising is in full swing.

I continue to receive inspiring e-mails as a result of the WSJ article.  I realize that, while my cancer is challenging me physically, it also draws out my determination and will, allowing me to offer hope to others.

I am thriving, I am Ironman.

Howdy, I had CT / PET scans last week and saw my oncologist. I am delighted to report that all of the tumors are stable and my blood numbers are all within normal ranges.

I have had a slight set back in training, due to an acute sinus infection.  However, with antibiotics, and rest, which is hard for me (!!), I expect to be back in the saddle shortly. I have a triathlon in 2 weeks.

The wonderful letters are still flowing in response to the WSJ article. Below is an example of another letter from a complete stranger:

April 16, 2007

Dear Paul,

I just read the article that appeared in the Wall Street Journal. You are an inspiration to everyone on the planet, myself included, who has ever had to deal with events that seem to be catastrophic. Many of which pales in comparison to the challenges you are facing. I have always been a firm believer in the power of positive thinking, which more recently has been reinforced by my daughter sending me a copy of the recently publicized SECRET and the theory of quantum physics, DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE. Science research, to date, may not have proven that a positive attitude can help the body cure itself of serious illness, but I believe they are on the verge of this discovery.

I know I will pick up a newspaper five or ten years from now and read about your miraculous recovery. Your positive attitude will help insure that you and your wife live a long, healthy and happy life together.

You are my hero and the champion of every person who has challenges to overcome. You are not an IRONMAN. You are made of STEEL and every time steel goes into the fire, it becomes stronger. Stay focused on wellness and each day you WILL become stronger.

Warmest personal regards.

Sincerely,

H.C.

Lexington, NC

As you can see the sentiments are extraordinary. Speaking of extraordinary, Signature Cycles, founded by Paul Levine (Paul's Posse member) is passionate about cycling and Paul’s Posse. They are offering substantial discounts until July 31, 2007 to any Posse member or contributor to Paul’s Posse! 

25% for fitting services

25% for all Parts (components, wheels, tires, tubes. etc.)

20% for service (overhauls, tune-ups)

20% for all clothing (jerseys, jackets, gloves, socks)

5% New Bicycles

 
Signature Cycles
80 West End Ave. , Second Floor (64th St. and West End Ave.)
Old 250 West 64th Street entrance)
New York, NY 10023
T (212) 706-0025

Check out their Website at www.signaturecycles.com

I am an Ironman

More Letters!

The fantastic letters and emails are STILL rolling in! Here are a few more excerpts from some that have come in the last few days:

I read the article on you in the Wall Street Journal. You sound like a truly amazing individual, and your attitude is contagious. I just wanted to drop you a note and let you know that you are an inspiration to all, and I wish you all the best as a cancer thriver.

Another women wrote:

After reading your outlook on life and cancer in Thursday's Journal, I realize that the next step I need to take in my professional life is to work on an oncology drug!

I hope you do! There is so much need for more research in oncology and particularly with GIST. Don't forget to donate to Paul's Posse!

I'll be seeing this guy at the Pan Mass Challenge:

What an amazing story - I applaud your attitude and what you are doing. As the father of a 4 year old son who is battling neuroblastoma, I cant get enough of positive stories about cancer. I have also formed a PMC team (Team Brentwheels), and Aug 07 will be our third year in the event.

Hopefully I'll get to meet you and shake your hand in August.

Keep it going.

It's amazing to feel all of the support! Keep giving to cancer research...

I am an Ironman

Encouragement!

The encouraging emails, letters and amazing stories are still flooding in. I have been truly humbled by all of the support and well wishes I have received from hundreds of people, many I have never even met before. I felt I should share a few of the stories and comments that I have received this week.

One woman wrote this to Jeff Zaslow at the WSJ:

Thank you very much for the story of Paul Schaye...I read your column approximately an hour before my mom, an 84-year old who served as a Marine in WW II called to tell me she's been diagnosed with breast cancer. I'm putting your column in the mail to her today!

Another wrote:

Paul Schaye is a role model for all of us with late stage cancer. The term "cancer thriver" is now a part of my vocabulary.

One email came from a 32 year old business woman whose father had pancreatic and liver cancer. She says he is doing well now with a few ups and downs, because as she put it,

I don't think he was scared of cancer, I think cancer was scared of him!  It's so wonderful to hear that there are so many men fighting cancer with a strong desire to live and be cured of this deadly disease.  Your article has touched my heart!

These are just a few quotes, but I'll continue to post more in the coming days. Thanks again for all of the support you have shown.

I am an Ironman.

 

Cancer Thriver!

Many of you have already sent me comments and encouraging notes about the article that ran in the Wall Street Journal on Thursday. I have been overwhelmed by all of the responses I have received and I will be posting some of the letters and notes received throughout the next week.

Also, if there is one thing that I would like to see happen from my recent "publicity," it is to see money raised for GIST research (GIST is the type of cancerous tumor that found its way into my body). All the money we raise will go directly to support the research of Dr. George D. Demetri, the world's leading authority on GIST. I've even convinced Dr. Demetri to ride in the Pan Mass Challenge for the very first time. He'll do so by my side! If you would like to donate, please follow this link Support Paul's Posse .

For those who didn't get to see it, I also thought I would put the link to the WSJ article up here so everyone can check it out.

Link to the Wall Street Journal Article

Thank you for all your support!

I am an Ironman

March 8, 2007

I just saw my oncologist today. He is pleased with my overall health and the fact that my blood counts are good. However, the doctor was a little disappointed because the last scan showed no additional shrinkage after the initial reduction. What I learned is that now, it is a waiting game as "it is what it is." There is nothing I can do except to continue taking Gleevec and monitor the tumors. As in my case, surgery is not an option because there is no way to grab it all.

If laughter is the best medicine, I've even discovered some of the "benefits" of GIST (Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor):

• I can blame my forgetfulness on Gleevec
• My blotchy skin can be blamed on Gleevec
• I am not gaining weight, just bloated. Gleevec, you see, can cause water retention
• I have abdominal cancer, and that's why my belly is swollen. It can't be the two (or three) scoops of ice cream I gobble down in front of the TV.
• Need sympathy? Play the cancer card. This works about, oh...three times
• Cancer patients get ALL the good drugs. Oxycodone, Demerol, OxyContin...
• Ever wonder about life after death? I'm going to the first on my block to learn the answers (morbid, but likely true)

I continue to train for my first triathlon of the season next month.

I am thriving, I am an Ironman

Paul

February 12, 2007

It has been a while since my last update.  I just had CAT/PET scans this past weekend. To again quote my oncologist, “excellent results”.  The PET scan showed all tumors showing no abnormal metabolic activity as Gleevec continues to combat my cancer. The CAT shows additional shrinkage in both in the liver tumor and stomach tumor with the lung tumor remaining stable.  I am delighted with these test results.

I am thriving and continue to train for St. Anthony’s Triathlon in FL and the Eagleman 70.3 Ironman in MD. Hey, I am even planning to do the NYC marathon again.

There are now 40+ members of "Paul’s Posse" riding in the Pan Mass Challenge this summer. You can check out the website to see who’s riding along. www.paulsposse.com. 

I am an Ironman

January 12, 2006

We spent our holidays in Ecuador and the Galapagos. It was incredible.

As my doctor said yesterday, “it’s as good as it can get and I have great expectations for you”. My blood counts are improving and therefore, I will tested every other week. There is some minor concern about my resting heart rate being higher than my normal 45-46bpm. (One of the side effects of Gleevec is tachycardia) I saw a MSK cardiologist and they are going to monitor heart function and conduct some minor tests, but there is no cause for concern.

The game plan is to have a CAT scan in 4 weeks and hope for continued shrinkage. When there is no more evidence of shrinkage, then we’ll look into the viability of surgery.

It feels great to be training again and I am training for my first triathlon of the season April 27^th in FL. I don’t have the same stamina pre-C, but all things considered I am very happy!

 

I am an Ironman