Lymphoma Healing Fund for Ceilia

My Journey to Health So Far...

Dear Friends and Relations,

My name is Ceilia Ellison. The reason that I am writing this letter is to reach out to all who might be interested about my journey to health so far. In February of 2014, I had a two year check-up at the hospital, after donating one of my kidneys in 2011. I ended up staying for an emergency procedure, after a test showed a tumor encasing my ureter, which had blocked my only kidney. A stent (tube) was placed in my ureter to keep it open, and fortunately my kidney function went back to normal.

In May of 2014, after a series of tests, I was diagnosed with lymphoma. The oncologist urged me to start chemotherapy immediately, but I felt that was not the way I wanted to go. I firmly believe that through prayers, diet, exercise, and alternative treatments, I can regain my health. Right away, I changed my habits, and started a process of detoxification with raw food at a place called Optimum Health Institute. I began following an alkaline diet and working closely with a holistic doctor in a course of alternative medicine. This included several supplements, injections of an herb called mistletoe that comes from Germany, and weekly IV vitamin C infusions. This approach focuses on strengthening my immune system, hoping to stop the cancer from growing and eventually make the tumors disappear. I was aware that this was going to be a long journey of several years, but knew I was on the right path when the second MRI that I had showed a reduction in the largest tumor. In December of 2014, the doctors decided to risk taking out the stent, and my kidney has continued to function well without it. This result was very encouraging for everyone, including the oncologist, who knows that I am following this diet and taking alternative treatments. She still denies that any other approach to treating cancer is possible and recommends chemotherapy, as that is all she has to offer, but has continued supporting me with MRIs and tests to monitor my progress.

In May 2015, it was one year since I was diagnosed, and looking back, I feel so blessed with your support, which has carried me this far on what seemed an impossible journey to take. Although it was a risky and scary decision to make in the beginning, my confidence in the choices I made continues to grow, and I have even been able to witness how my journey has affected many people in their approach to health. I am proud of the influence that I have had on my closest family, friends, and relations, and that so many have made changes and benefitted by my example. I am grateful for this experience, which has given me an education to help guide others towards better health.

I have a strong will to be healthy again, and look forward to many years of life with Hector, our son Julian, and all of you. Please know that I am deeply grateful for the many ways you all have touched my life. This path of healing requires not only discipline, but puts a huge financial strain on my family each month...I am deeply appreciative of the prayers for healing and support towards my medical expenses. If you are able to contribute financially, even the smallest amount would help. Thank you for reading this, and may God bless each one of you with good health and a joyful home.

With Love and Gratitude,

Ceilia