CHAP; a charitable program with a creative heart

There are many wonderful local charities in the Portland area that do some excellent work. However, there is one that is personally near and dear to me. That is CHAP (Children's Healing Art Project). A wonderful organization that was started in 2006 by artist Frank Etxaniz. Partnering with philanthropist Charlie Swindells, Frank visited children individually at Doernbecher in hematology and oncology.

This artistic organization has brought many children the healing power of art for over ten years. But not only children, adults too. That's where our story begins...
During Nicks stay at the Kohler Pavilion at OHSU, we would only have two things to do; watch tv or play on our electronic devices. Feeling isolated from the world did not do much to ease either Nick's pain of being stuck in bed hooked up to medical devices and given pain meds, or the pain that his parents and I had of watching  him having to go through it. Even with the never ending cycle of nurses and doctors coming in, it didn't help to raise our spirits or make us feel even remotely human. If anything, it alienated both of us.

One day a young woman came in saying she was from CHAP. I was familiar with CHAP cause it wasn't the first time we were introduced to CHAP. After Nicks first surgery, I believe it was the same young lady who asked if we would like to have any art supplies to give us something to do. Both Nick and I, being artist, jumped at the chance. She told us what was available.  I got beads and

Nick working on his sculpture during his second hospital visit

memory wire, and Nick got a sketch book with pencils. On this second visit, Nick got some clay and a sculpture stand to model his up and coming creation, and I got a bunch of beads and memory wire. It was one of the few days in the hospital that Nick felt the urge to get up and do something other than walk or just sit up. That day he and I started our little creations, complimenting each others work as it came along.  That day, even surrounded by medical devices, hospital air, and illness, we felt like ourselves.

Art is a powerful tool. It allows people, especially with illness to either express their internal struggle, or to escape for a while and create something beautiful. CHAP understands this and thanks to their in-hospital programs, many children and even adults get a chance to forget their worries and create! CHAP doesn't just visit OHSU and Doernbecher. They also have art programs with Harold Schnitzer Diabetes Health Center and the Pediatric Neurosurgery Clinic.  They even have an art club outside of the hospitals for children with medical challenges. And its free! If there is ever a local charitable orginization that knew the healing power of art, its CHAP. I hope and pray that they continue with their work, bringing joy and creativity to all who need it.

Nicks sculpture finished

If you would like to learn more about CHAP and help them with their artistic mission, go to their website at:
https://chappdx.org/

Also as a reminder; The Lewis Support Foundation is still trying to get themselves up and running. The dream is to not only help give support to those with cancer, but to help other orginizations like CHAP. To do that we need to obtain a business license and get our name out there in the Portland community. Even if you could donate a dollar, it gets us a step closer to achieving the dream that Nick had desired. You can donate at:
https://www.gofundme.com/the-lewis-support-foundation

Thank you, and fight the good fight.

Deadpool - Gentlemen, Touch Yourself Tonight | 2016

A message to men about testicular cancer

The Bug Out Bag

When your loved one or yourself has been diagnosed with cancer, life takes a turn for unwelcomed surprises. This includes sudden trips to the hospital. After Nick's diagnosis, we not only  had five to seven day stays at the hospital, but also unexpected trips to the ER that sometimes resulted in overnight stays. It was after the third trip that we decided that we had to make a 'bug out bag'. Every time we had to make a trip to the ER, we took our trusty bag with us. Its something that I highly recommend. 

Now some people may wonder what to pack in their 'bug out bag'. Each situation is different, but just to help get ya'll started, here are some things I would recommend. Mind you, this is for both the patient and the family member who will be there with them each time. So make sure you pack for both. So here is a simple list to help you get your bag going.

1. Extra Clothes

If you stay overnight in the ER observation room, you will need fresh trousers. This means socks, underwear, pants and shirt. Especially for the patient. After a night of anguish and uncertainty, the last thing you need is to wonder if you smell of hospital. And if you get some bodily fluids on you, its nice to have a spare pair of, well, everything. 

2. Toiletries

Travel size is your best bet. Toothpaste, toothbrush, hair brush, deodorant, and personal wipes are pretty standard. If you stay overnight at the ER or even put in the hospital, you will want to keep up with your hygiene. This is especially true for the person going with the patient. Believe me. I've experienced the over night stay and after even just one night of stress you just feel icky. Even though the hospital may offer the patient some of these, its nice to have your own on hand. 

3. Chargers

With today's technology you can keep loved ones in check with whats going on. But between the texting, Facebook updates and so on, that can drain the battery of any device. So to prevent battery death, always have a spare charger in the bug out bag. One emergency is enough.

4. Extra items for patients with special needs

If the patient has special medical devices, for example an ostomy bag, pack extras in the bag. One time when Nick was in the ER, he needed an new ostomy bag. We asked the nurse for one. Come to find out they don't keep them on hand in the ER. She was sweet and got him one (even though it took her nearly an hour to get it) however, we learned the hard way that not all nurses are trained to care for ostomy's. Long story short, take extra supplies. You never know.

5. Paperwork

This means the information on the patient that was given to them by their oncologist. This includes a list of prescriptions, diagnosis, patient information, and oncologists name. When ever we went into the ER, Nick would be asked what prescriptions he was on, and so forth. Sometimes in tense situations we can't remember everything. So the best thing to have is a folder with the paperwork. Even if it seems mundane, it never hurts to have it. 

6. Cash

I know, cash seems so vintage. Especially since we run on plastic cards. But do you really want to use your credit card at the hospital? If its used for emergencies, I can see why. But I suggest cash. If you stay the night, the hospital will provide for the patient. And sometimes they will get you a drink. But if you stay in observation with the patient, you will need some substance. Which means a trip to the cafeteria. And if you stay more than one night, that's more trips to the cafeteria. So yeah, I recommend some cold hard cash, and use the card as a back up. That way you don't drain your account.

All of these suggestions are from our own personal experience. Like I said earlier, each situation is unique. And what worked for us may not work for you. But its good to start with the basics and then work your way towards what you will need for your bag. One thing I forgot to mention; keep the bag in a spot where you can grab it in a pinch. That way your not looking for it and wasting precious time during an emergency. Remember, its best to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

-Fight the good fight

Lets make the dream a reality.

As you may know, Nick, the founder of the Lewis Support Foundation, wanted to make the dream a reality. Its my intention to make it so. So the Lewis Support Foundation is starting another fund raiser for itself. Lets make the dream a reality so we can help families who need the extra support for themselves and their loved one who has been diagnosed with cancer. Please help by donating or sharing so we can make this happen.
https://www.generosity.com/fundraising/the-lewis-support-foundation--2

Colon Caner awareness month

Not many people know this, but March is Colon Cancer awareness month. As many of you know, colon cancer took the life of the Lewis Support Foundation's founder, Nick Lewis. He was only 34 years old. They may say get screened when you turn 50. But as I learned the hard way, cancer doesn't discriminate. You can be a young individual and it can still happen to you. 
There are signs that you could be diagnosed with colon cancer, however according to the American Cancer Society the symptoms often don't show until the cancer has spread or grown. Because of this, there are no symptoms in the earlier stages. It is suggested though that if there is a history of cancer in your family, its best to speak with your doctor about getting screened just in case. If you have other risk factors, such as a past diagnose of cancer, its better to be safe than sorry, and get a screening. 
We can't live in fear though. The best prevention usually is a healthy lifestyle. That means proper nutrients, exercise, spiritual health and well being. So until a cure can be found, we must be vigilant and supportive of those who are diagnosed with this disease as well as other forms of cancer.
 To help you stay vigilant, the American Cancer Society, as well as other health sites, have created a list of signs and symptoms that can indicate Colon Cancer. Please remember that this doesn't always mean that cancer is what's wrong, BUT, if your instincts are saying otherwise and some of the symptoms don't get any better, it maybe a good idea to get screened.

Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

• A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, that lasts for more than a few days

• A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so

• Rectal bleeding

• Dark stools, or blood in the stool (often, though, the stool will look normal)

• Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain

• Weakness and fatigue

• Unintended weight loss

For more information about Colon Cancer signs and symptoms:

http://www.cancer.org/cancer/news/features/signs-and-symptoms-of-colon-cancer

Fight the good fight.

Pushing forward and what to expect here on the blog

Hello all. It has been a while since anything has been posted. After going through the grief, its time for us all to move forward. Coming soon to this blog will be interviews from others diagnosed with life threatning diseases, loved ones who have become caregivers for loved ones diagnosed as well as tips and newsletters about cancer and other life altering diagnosis. Stay tuned and hopefully we can get this foundation going in the future for those in need.
-Fight the good fight

The ending of the battle, the beginging of healing

On the first of February 2015 Nicholas Lewis was called from the cares of the world surrounded by his family. Many have known him on this blog to be the founder of the up and coming Lewis Foundation and an inspiration to others going through the same ordeal as he. To others he was a son, a brother, a nephew, an uncle, and a fiance/husband. Though his spirit was willing to keep fighting, his body could not.

In December of 2012 Nick and his family learned that he had Stage IV Colon Cancer. It had invaded his liver and all but covered it in the sickness. Both Nick and his family were in disbelief and fearful of the future. Nick had to undergo two surgeries. One for a illiostomy, the other for a smart port for the chemo he would have to have. After the surgeries and recovery Nick and his then girlfriend Deanne, started to do research on the disease and how to battle it as well as the side effects of the chemo.

Not to long after his surgeries, Nick started his chemo treatments. At the time he could hardly walk and was having a difficult time eating. His treatments were long. Lasting almost six hours. His weight went down to its lowest of 97 lbs. He was told by doctors that if he didn't start eating that he would be put into hospice. Nick concluded that he wasn't eating for two reasons; one was because he had just been through two surgeries and the recovery time was long. The second was because he was being hounded to eat, and being the stubborn soul that he was, refused out of spite. But in no time, Nicks appetite came back and he made the lifestyle change to have a more healthy diet.
Wanting more independence, Nick decided that it was time to move out of his parents home, that he and his girlfriend, had been living in for under a year. With the help of his Mason brothers, Nick and Deanne were able to acquire a nice apartment and moved into it in April of 2013. The joke to them was that it was more of a art studio than an apartment. This was because both Nick and Deanne were artist and almost every inch of the living room was used to accomplish various projects.

Nick was given that first summer off in order to enjoy the warm months without the chemo holding him back. During that time Nick put on weight and enjoyed time with Deanne and working on art projects. On Sundays they would volunteer to work at the Masons Art Market that they had been involved with for a few years. There Nick and Deanne would sell their art pieces and enjoy each others company.

Even though Nick had a horrible diagnosis, he still enjoyed his favorite hobbies which were photography, poetry, movies, music, reading, outings to parks and antique stores, and cooking. He made it his mission to help inspire all who had cancer as well as other diseases. Though they couldn't go out with friends as often as they wanted, Nick and Deanne made the best of their situation. They went out as often as they could and even made it to a Kamelot concert. Though they couldn't stay for the whole concert, it was still very enjoyable for the both of them.

In November of 2013 Nick was admitted into the hospital for stomach issues. He had been given a new drug, a chemo pill, that was apparently known to sit in the stomach for days before finally dissolving. Nick was unaware of this as it was not mentioned as a side effect. This was finally the diagnosis to his stomach issue after almost two days of tests and guesses. He then had to have a tube placed down through his nose and into his stomach to have the remainder of the bile removed. He was fully conscious for this and Deanne had to help hold him down for the nurses to do the procedure. He was heavily sedated for the pain that his stomach was in, and even had weird hallucinations. One was that there was a giant squirrel in the room. Both Nick and Deanne laughed at that. There was even a time when Deanne had to go home for the evening in order to go to work the next day, and at 9 pm got a phone call from Nick at the hospital. He was suffering from a side effect from his current chemotheraphy, where his hands were peeling very badly. He was complaining to her that they were hurting and itchy. Not to long before she had left the doctors prescribed him a lotion for the hands. She asked if his nurse was there and the nurse was standing right next to him while he had called her. Deanne asked to talk to the nurse and gave the nurse the instructions that the doctors had given her about the prescribed lotion. Other than the one night away, Deanne stayed with Nick at the hospital to keep him calm and to be by his side. He was released and was able to be home for Thanksgiving.

In May of 2014 Nick asked Deanne to become his wife. Though in March of 2013 they got promise rings, it was at the Pittock Mansion in front of the music room that he got on one knee and made if official. Though they were not married on paper, in their hearts they were husband and wife, and even called each other such.

During the summer of 2014, Nick and Deanne enjoyed coffee shops, juice bars, antique stores, and various outings. They even took the time to discuss in more detail Nicks idea for the Lewis Foundation. He even made more art pieces and created more poetry.

In December of 2014 Nick noticed that his health was going down. He began to get a mild case of jaundice, which he had gotten in the past but had recovered from. This time though, instead of getting better, it was getting worse. After seeing the oncologist, it was discovered that the disease had progressed. The doctors had to stop treatment because of the amount of jaundice. Through January, Nick started to become weaker. He began to walk with a walker again, and needed help with almost everything. Nick then started to stay more at his parents house, with Deanne at his side. Soon, he became so weak that he could barely walk. It was in February in the early morning that he took his last breath with Deanne, his brother, and parents by his side.

Nick had good days, and bad days. There were days during his chemotherapy that he had endless energy, and then there were times he didn't feel like getting out of bed. He kept well with his lifestyle change. And even to this day, we believe that helped him recover after chemotherapy and give him the strength and energy to go out and enjoy life.


.Nick fought long and hard against the disease and the odds that were put against him. He kept going despite the doctors telling him that his time was limited. Even when he was admitted into the hospital or had to go to the ER, he kept showing a fighting spirit. And in the two years that he was diagnosed, he lived more than most do in a lifetime.

Though he is gone, his fiance/widow had vowed to continue his dream. To get the foundation underway and help those not only diagnosed with cancer, but other life threatening diseases. She believes wholeheartedly that natural treatment can help on the road to good health and recovery. That attitude and a fighting spirit are two factors that can help a person overcome a diagnosis. Nick is an inspiration to all. Even when faced with death, he held a bright smile and beautiful soul that will be missed, but forever live on.

-this was written by Nicks fiance/widow, Deanne, in the hopes that their story will inspire others to keep fighting and hope for a better day for all who must take on these challenges.
Fight the good fight, and never give up. Sweet dreams my poetic angel. I love you.