Getting Gangster on Cancer

I've just finished making the rounds here at MDA. I wasn't able to see my main oncologist today; however, I did communicate with him through his nurse and did have second-hand conversations with his nurse practitioner. I do know that he is aware of my current progress and has cleared me for the second and final dose for Round 10. I'm starting to get used to this type of distant communication with my doctor. It's not to my preference but I realize this type of informal communication is a byproduct of choosing to receive care from such a large health organization. I see it as the equivalent of health-care via corporation. I've hedged my medical bets by continuing to see my original oncologist on a regular basis for a second opinion. Perhaps it's just my bright-sided perspective, but I get the feeling he has much more of a personal interest in my case. After all, we still have a standing bet and I plan on making good on my wager very soon. Vegas here we come.

Fortunately for me, a man so far into this cancer race, my posture remains confident, my head held high, my smile contagious. I think back to the fall of 2003, a simple yet equally ambitious time in my life. It was my last semester as a student at the University of Texas and the end of a special era. I would soon be exiting my roll in academia and was very eager to assume a new roll as an IT professional in the 'real world'. More importantly, I would achieve something no other Mexican had accomplished before in my extended family, earn a degree from a higher institution. It would only be a few months before I would move back to my hometown, Houston, and start my first post-degreed job as an IT analyst and consultant for a small consulting firm.

My fellow 'gangster' and roommate decided to take a job at a local and even smaller company in Austin that he'd been interning at. We both considered ourselves lucky for landing good jobs before walking stage. Despite the stellar reputation of the McCombs School we were still feeling the effects of the so called 'dot.com bust' and both the financial and information economies had taken a severe hit. This was heavily reflected by the amount of new-hires companies were taking on at the time.

So, I'm now waiting in the chemo line, feeling pretty strong for being in the middle of the 10th consecutive round of aggressive chemotherapy. But I know I'm going to have dig deep now and find strength in new places. I am comfortable with my current strategy to remission for now, and I am even more committed to my cure. But it is not strategy I need to alter at this point in my fight. I've been in consulting too long to not know the difference between a strategic and a tactical change. In short, I have faith in my current strategy. It's time to change my tactics. It's time to have no mercy on a single cancer cell. It's time to get "Gangster" on this cancer!

Vatos Locos Forever! - We were able to buy everything for our costumes at Wal-Mart

Hook'em!!! Halloween 2003 - 2 of the brightest vatos and business school students at UT ;-)

Telling the sweet receptionist at MDA how gangster I'm about to get on my cancer today.

Crooning Through Chemo

It's been just a couple of days since the end of Round-7. Doctors at MDA decided to change-up my Chemo regimen again since the Round-6 doses really took me down. I'm happy to report that I continue to use my guitar to heal what other medicines seem to destroy.

Although, each chord change pains my fingertips and the neuropathy has left my hands numb yet tingly. An audiologist has confirmed that I have moderate to severe hearing loss in certain frequency ranges as a result from the extraordinary amount of platinum coming out of my body. A constant ringing of super-high pitched shrills now has me asking people to repeat themselves on a daily basis. But as if out of no where, among the pain and anguish, a voice emerges. One that I have never heard before, and it begins to sing.

It's the first time I've ever attempted to sing and play a song on the guitar. The song happens to be a love song, it is titled Sideways. I don't know why of the many songs to learn I picked this song to play and sing, but it is associated with a very special memory. I was first introduced to this song a few years back. I had the pleasure of seeing it performed live by Citizen Cope at Stubbs in Austin. It was a concert I was reluctant to attend, I'd never heard of the artist before, but was madly in love at the time and also deeply confused about my relationship. In an attempt to appease my girlfriend I had agreed to go. I didn't realize at the time how special this song would become through this cancer battle.

I've never seen any of the many x-rays or scans of my cancerous tumors but I hear there are plenty of them. There are some so special that I don't even need to see them in print to know they are there. One such tumor has metastasized near my heart and pains me more than others at times. It brings a new meaning to the word 'heartache' for me. Alas, it is there for an important reason. It is there to remind me that disease can takeover your heart if you let it. Both love and cancer have forever changed this man. In this case it has helped me find a voice I didn't know was there.

This cancer is just as much a lesson in love as it is a lesson in life for me. In the most dis-eased state of my life I've learned such a valuable lesson. I now know that a healthy cell is a loving cell. So you can bet that I've been doing plenty of lovemaking lately, it just happens to be on the cellular level.

-Joel C. Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

Please Twinkle Mexican Star

The bell for 'Round 7' rings for my next dose of chemotherapy sometime next week and the doctors and I continue to make decisions one day at a time. I'm quickly learning that one has to be both flexible and patient when fighting cancer. Fortunately for me I am both. But I have to admit, patience is a rather new capacity of mine and I embrace it. I know true patience is a factor of time, so I do my best everyday to fight this disease in the best way that I can. I don't get upset when delays surface or my suffering increases. I've experienced pain on a daily basis, so intense that it would surely bring any man to his knees. Pain so deep that I know tumors have manifested in my bodies core. Remarkably my mind has strengthened its capacity to cope with such a malaised invasion on my body. I have faith that experiencing the greatest pains in life often inspire the greatest gains. And I have so much to gain and soon.

I've been experiencing a "low" fluctuation since Round 6, which ended a couple of weeks ago.

I reluctantly realize that the chemotherapy treatments haven taken quite a toll on my body and now my mind. I'm starting to question why the word 'therapy' even proceeds Chemo. Take my word for it, nothing seems therapeutic about it.

My cancer fight is very much a race against time and the amount of collateral damage that medicines have done to my physical existence. Cancerous tumors exist on almost every major organ of my body, but thankfully at the time of my diagnosis it did not spread to my brain. Doctors have informed me that the advanced metastases of tumors have spread as far north as as my super-clavical lymph nodes and it is near impossible to surgically remove all of the tumors, much less attempt to identify active from benign tumors. So, according to traditional Western medicine and advice from some of the most experienced and learned oncologists in Houston, chemo treatments are the only viable option for my cure now.

I've come such a long way since the beginning of this fight, and much of my cancer has left me. In its place, I have regenerated healthy, happy and peaceful cells. I still have unrelenting faith that my full cure is around the corner and my excitement grows. I see the finish line in the distance, but it still feels so far away at times. I remind myself that even the brightest stars appear to fluctuate in brightness from here on Earth. At times appearing to be dim and dull, much like I've been feeling lately from all this chemo. But here is the thing, stars only appear to 'twinkle' here on Earth as a result of our atmosphere and its fluctuating state. If we had the ability to view stars outside of our atmosphere they would always appear bright and unwavering in intensity. So would stars 'twinkle' if there is no Earth to view them from? Would certain diseases not manifest if we put our minds to it?

I believe that much exists outside our atmosphere on levels we will always struggle to comprehend. It is important to me to study and understand the ideas and theories of men like Einstein and Hawking during this cancer battle. They serve as great examples of what mankind can dream up about our Universe when you master the ability to imagine.

"We are just an advanced breed of monkeys on a minor planet of a very average star. But we can understand the Universe. That makes us something very special." - Stephen Hawking

It is important to understand that our journey through the Universe starts from within. It starts on the cellular level. However, it is not until we acknowledge and become keenly aware of the greater Universe around us, that we can truly appreciate the beauty of individual cells. Even if they are cancerous.

- Mexican Armstrong

Mexican Armstrong and Baby Lilly Armstrong use their imaginations to play 'Super Stars'

Kitty Get a job with MexicanArmstrong.org!

Kitty Darwin Armstrong showing how to be a lazy Mexican. A trait that is both genetic and cultivated skill. We are blessed to have both. I'm taking notes from him though, as we evolve together in a brave new cancer-free world. My body is in cruise-control set to "Healing" and the drive is bumpy at times. But I always find a way to enjoy the ride and treasure the journey I am on.

Now if I can only master his ability to sleep with one eye open! 

Mexican Fish Food

So it has been about 10 days since I have successfully completed my prescribed Chemo treatments and I continue to wake up every morning with positive thoughts in my head and a thankful smile on my face. 20 treatments of 3 types of chemo drugs and 4 consecutive months of morning sickness can sure wear on a Mexican. The most uncomfortable side-effect of the chemo treatments is the virtual loss of my hands. Moderate to severe neuropathy has progressively worsened with each post-chemo week. But amazingly both my body and spirit have found a way to appreciate in both strength and value.

I decided to hitch a ride with a long-time friend and associate back home to Austin. I figured I would let him worry about the road and I could just enjoy the ride. He is going for business but I plan on focusing more on pleasure and less on work while at home. On the way out of town we make a couple of pit stops, the first of which is a pet store. I want to pick up some live fish food for Lionel and the rest of the gang in the tank. It's imperative that Lionel's predatory skills stay sharp and it's clear he has a knack for hunting ghost shrimp. On our second stop we picked up some essentials for a Texas road trip; beef jerky and Flammin' Hot Limon Cheetos. Both of which contribute -26% of your daily nutritional value. A statistic that is not acceptable for this cancer curing consultant but junk-food is my delicacy.

Mexican Fish Food - Sea Monkeys, Ghost Shrimp, and my love-hate relationship with a junk-food snack!

Road trip to Austin - BMW twin-turbos, Beef Jerky and Cheetos fuel our journey.

It's been several weeks since I've been to Austin and I am excited to return. I'm very comfortable on the road and I realize that the act of traveling during this time in my life feels natural. A target can be both a noun and a verb and I know I will forever be a moving target, I can see it in the stars. But it is my current cancerous actions that have put me in between a bullet and a target.

My sister claims that she is a "realist", and I respect that. I on the other hand am a Dreamer. A true visionary of many things in my life. In fact, I literally reek with it, as it has been my fragrance of choice for the past 10 years. Just ask the women I am closest to, their memories of me seemingly triggered by the dreamy scent inspired by one of their favorite designers.

But who isn't a realist to an extent? We all have to be, its part of our nature. But here's the thing. Our perception is our reality and our reality is our perception. And this cancer has only made my visions more vivid, my ideas more audacious and my actions increasingly ambitious. I know that these are qualities necessary to be a great leader of my foundation and I feel so blessed to possess them. These changes are for the best, but sometimes it becomes painfully obvious that there are some around me that have not made the same changes in their lives, even some of my closest of familia. However, this cancer is bringing out the best in me. I plan on using these qualities to my fullest extent to further the lofty goals I envision for the cancer foundation founded in my name.

My mom taking the opportunity to take a picture in front of expensive stuff that's not ours.

It's nice to catch up with many of the good friends I have here. My network in Austin has always been strong and I enjoy watching it grow very quickly as word about MexicanArmstrong.org spreads organically. Remember, organic is synonymous with living. And I plan on living well and letting my life continue its wonderful process. So each day I embrace the growth of every new healthy cell and every new healing relationship initiated.

-Joel C. Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

Thank-You for your donation!!!

Feeling MexicanArmstrong.org!

Below is an email written to friends while working hard in Austin:

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Hola Amigos,

I just wanted to remind you to check out the latest blog post with the cute Mexican baby pics!

I'm feeling really strong, below is a picture taken last night around midnight while working on finalizing the articles of incorporation for MexicanArmstrong.org. Some how I've managed to not only make it through a long week of chemo, but also figure out how to build muscle at the same time! The doctors don't know what to think of a Mexican like me!?!?

Let's just say, I have my secrets and my friends! ;-)

-Joel C. Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

Special Delivery - Very Fishy Business for MexicanArmstrong.org

It didn't take long for me decide to go back to Austin after finishing a full five days of chemo treatment in Houston. I had rested only about one day before I felt strong enough to make the drive again. Remarkably I was able to make it through round 3 like a champ and have come a long way learning how to fight with the chemo drugs to eradicate cancer at a pace that I know many will study for time to come.

With an extra boost of energy from some acupuncture healing, I packed my gear and hit the road.

I started a 75 gallon saltwater tank just weeks before I was diagnosed in May. This is my second time maintaining a sophisticated aquarium and I find it a challenging and satisfying hobby. On my way out of town I picked up a Special Delivery for MexicanArmstrong.org's saltwater tank. The package only contained enough oxygen to sustain its contents for a few hours. I had no choice in making my trip to Austin a swift, but smooth drive.

The mission of saltwater aquaria? Basically, recreate the ocean in a box. Which sounds simple at first, but think about it. 70% of our Earth is roughly made-up of bodies of water. It is quite literally the most abundant and stable environment on earth. It is the body of life. I don't use this prefix with possible much these days, but it is impossible to really recreate the ocean in a box. At minimum it's a daunting task, and presents a complex problem. But like any great consultant, I manage to surround myself with bright people and deliver even more brilliant solutions.

Half-way through the drive very painful neuropathy appeared in my hands. Special delivery on its way!

No drinking and driving here! You won't find beer in this cooler, mostly just saltwater.

A successful aquarist understands that he or she must maintain an aquatic ecosystem with keen regard to both the environment (tank) and the happiness of its inhabitants (fish). Notice how I said "happiness". What is the point of keeping a pet if they aren't happy? The fact is, there isn't one. Our tank is doing quite well now, our newest addition, a Dwarf Lionfish (Dendrochrius biocellatus), will find his new home a nice change of pace. Like the Jefferson's, he is "Movin' on up to the East Side (Austin)".

Much like my body, I'm confident that our environment has not only stabilized but has found a new optimal level. It will continue to evolve in a positive progression along with our new addition. Welcome Lionel Fishy, I know you're a superior predator despite the flamboyance of your fins.

I also know it is survival of the fittest where you come from, but please don't eat your tank-mates. I can't afford to feed you $40 meals.

Lionel Fishy - Sportin' that Jheri-Fro (half jheri-curl, half afro)

Mr. Richie - A true pioneer of the Jheri-Fro (circa 1981). Lionel loves his MexicanArmstrong.org wristband!

Caution: MexicanArmstrong.org Wristbands Cause Healing

Below is an email sent to me from a dear friend in Austin. These images brought about a very peaceful and youthful smile from my face when I saw them this morning and made my fifth straight day of round three chemo a piece of cake!

You see, I've been really sensitive to adolescent energy, especially in infancy. Children just seem to radiate with an abundance of unspoken and vigorous ardor.

Baby Sofia, (I think i'll call you 'baby sofi-strong' from now on) I've had a few gum aches myself in the past weeks. I like your approach, and think I will chew on a wristband too. After all, what harm could it do? At least you don't have to see the dentist in a few weeks.

-Joel C Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

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Hi Joel,

You are truly an inspiration for those who know you and those who will meet you.

I wanted to send you a couple pics. Last night, I babysat for a friend as a favor. This baby is about 5 months old, her name is Sofia. She did not want to play with ANY of her toys last night. All she wanted to do was chew on my MexicanArmstrong.org wristband. ;)

She LOVED it. I took some pics for ya. =)

Take care of yourself, as I'm sure you are doing. You are a true champ and your spirit is so strong!

xoxo

Jen

Baby Sofia Armstrong - Caution MexicanArmstrong.org wristbands and cancer can cause healing. Please give to teething babies!!!

Just Another Drive to the Office - Racing for the Cure (and to Work)

I decided to head to Austin this past Saturday. I continue to find that the energy in the city is conducive to my speedy healing. Convinced of this, I packed a bag and loaded up my backpack and hit the road. For those who haven't taken a ride in the country lately, please do. We live in a beautiful state, and a 45 minute drive to see nature at its best will clear your mind and will do you good. I also suggest a peaceful bike ride if you are short on time and gas money but heavy on the environment and health.

I plan on taking a short ride with Lance himself as soon as we can both find time. I still have just a bit to go before I can ride well and he is still busy celebrating the joyous arrival of his newest son.

I tell my mom that all this fight and my triumph over cancer is going to make her a grandmother soon. She just smirks and quickly retorts, "not too soon son". But I know she awaits nothing more than my full healing and her first grandchild. Fat chance that I am going to get any assistance from my sister. She insists that it will be many years before she's going to have a bun in the oven. Guess I'm picking up the slack.

So I say, congratulations Lance and welcome Max, we are all so blessed to have you here. I have no doubt that I am "...standing on the shoulders of Giants" and their sons.

The weekend was amazing and after a productive weekend of work and a great meeting with the VP and fellow board member of MexicanArmstrong.org, I prepared for my Monday morning drive to work. The plan: wake up Monday morning at 6:00 am, drop my partner off at the airport and drive straight to Houston and the office (chemo chair) within 3 hours.

I learned many things on the drive home. I know most of which is positive and will be very helpful with my cancer foundation. I also learned that I was going to make it to Houston in way less than 3 hours. Overall the most notable experience arriving into Houston would be my literal race for the cure against a Viper and canary yellow Porsche Carrera. Confidently enough I won the race that day easily, my focus was that of a Top Gun pilot and my hands and feet were guided by a higher power. But I am wise enough to know the difference between a battle and war. So as I speed into battle and emerge into victory on the warfront, I proudly display my battle scars and have no fear of future war wounds.

For some reason the idea of changing rank diapers and 4am feedings scare me way more right now than a speeding ticket!

-Joel C Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

"Nothing is more difficult than the art of maneuvering for advantageous positions." - Sun-tzu

I jockey for position and take the 2nd slot.

The better you breathe the better you perform. Twin-Turbos propel me to speeds faster than the Porsche on the open stretches! Things begin to really speed up.

Won the race and made it to the office just in time for a chemo cocktail and a victorious sticking out of the tongue. A few more enemies bite the dust; Cancer, Viper and Porsche (in no particular order). None of them ever had a chance. ;-)

Baby Max showing his natural Armstrong talent of "Nanny-Nanny Boo-Boo, you can't catch me!"

Twinkle Twinkle Mexican Star

I had an amazing weekend filled with both good food and even better people. I am really blessed to have so many good friends who truly care about my well being and speedy recovery. I thrive off of their positive thoughts and energy and undoubtedly transform it into cancer killing abilities.

The highlight of the weekend came Sunday evening when I had the pleasure of spending some time with Lilly. Lilly is the daughter of some good friends and a very cute and beautifully vibrant three and a half year-old.

Our connection was immediate and our mood playful. It only took moments before I asked her to play "Super-Stars" with me and she happily accepted. You see, for many of us our ability to express our super-star within diminishes with our increasing age. The following is what happens when you ask a three year-old to be a shining star with you (notice the progressive stages of shining bright):

You know, if only Lilly was about 25 years older, I'd ask her out on a date. Oddly enough, I'm also positive I wouldn't get the same reactions from her 25 years from now. You see, grown-ups tend to forget how to act like a "Super Star", but a three year-old just gets it and so do I.

As I close my laptop I realize that we all have the ability to bring out our inner-star. It only takes a little imagination and we can all shine with a blinding luminosity.

-Joel C Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

Every Mexican Needs a Little Romance

Here is my second performance a day after neuropathy appeared in my hands and fingertips. 

The song is called Romance, it's a three part song made-up of two keys (both Major and Minor). To me it represents our natural tendency to express romanticism in our pursuit of true love.

Right-now I can only play the Minor movement and feel as though I express it well. I'm currently teaching myself the Major movement. I plan to save that performance for the next special lady in my life.

Move over Jack Johnson, this Mexican has got the guitar and the good love now!

-Joel C Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong 

Mexican in Music Over Matter

So there has been little doubt to me that music was going to play a role in my healing process. I've been a student of music off-and-on since 6th grade and some of my fondest memories are associated with being behind the command of an instrument. 

You see, by definition an instrument is a tool. It is merely a device, one that can be used to produce energy in wave form. Energy that is heard by our bodies tool, the ear. But it is our mind that really hears the music. Such beautiful noises can only be a product of our mind. Right now those sounds are a Sublime part of my healing. 

I received this guitar as a gift 10 years ago and it's been about that long since I have had a formal classical lesson. I've even managed to lose it a few times, but somehow it always seemed to find its way back. And for reasons that are now so obvious to me. A University-of-Texas-sized thank you goes to a great college buddy and dear friend James for making sure it returned to my hands for my most recent studies. Hook'em, Brotha! 

February 29, 2008 - James (far right) is The luckiest guy in Austin, Texas that day. He's also the guy that didn't pawn my guitar to pay for his wedding.  

 

So trust me when I tell you, that now-a-days I stop and listen just a little bit closer, just that much more intently. I hear the impossible and make it possible.

I can't wait to start dancing again. Cha-cha ladies? 

-Joel C Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

Music Over Matter - One day after neuropathy in my hands and partial hearing loss set-in. 

High Maintenance Mexicans

I continue to ride an enormous wave of healing energy and at a rather rapid pace. It's simply amazing, all of my senses are heightened and my perceptions feel almost psychic. I have found a new paradigm of my surrounding world and beyond. Maybe it's better to say that my paradigm has just shifted and my awareness has evolved. Either way, it's obvious that I am a better man.

This cancer has been quite the roller-coaster ride. The ups and downs of the ride represent my day-to-day battle with my disease and I know that I'm currently on the biggest drop of the ride. Many would agree that this is the best part of any roller-coaster ride, but it's the part I alwaysfeared most. An initial steep fall like this sure makes my tummy queasy, but its only a matter of moments before I regain an understanding of the forces working with me. My body is now a precision-built high maintenance machine. I've been finely tuning my machine towards a cure ever since my diagnosis. My doctor remains understated, yet impressed with my phenomenal progress. This trend is reflective in both my medical charts and MexicanArmstrong.org's business intelligence reports.

But I have no fear now. It didn't take me long to figure out that there is absolutely no room for fear or anger when curing cancer. Neither emotion is conducive to a healing state. I have replaced these counterproductive emotions with as much happiness and charm that I can fit into each and every cell in my body. This fundamental change in attitude has been a key ingredient in my most current success and I continue to hone my new disposition daily. I particularly enjoy practicing introducing myself as Mexican Armstrong. I confidently say with a smile that I have late stage cancer and wait for a reaction. The look on people's faces is always amusing, some reactions are priceless. It's a small victory for me when I can get them to smile or laugh with me about my disease.

My mind now sees a World and Universe with infinite possibilities and a body with a finite amount of cancer cells. My cancer curing campaign has been Superman-esque these last couple of weeks and I know I can't continue at such a grueling pace. There is now a slow-down on the horizon and I welcome its reduced velocity. It's time for me to be Clark Kent now, but with a little more southern gentleman in him. A man who is more graceful, humble and maybe even a bit more dapper (a new suit does sound nice).

Lean on Me Brother - taking care of business as a little Mexican

I think I'll start by taking my sister for a manicure and pedicure. It will be a first for me and I'm really looking forward to the therapy, my hands are very dry from the metals coming through them.

As I walk through the spa, I think to myself, "I hope I don't make any rookie mistakes here." Those are rarely initial confidence boosters. But it didn't take too long before my sister informed me that the "mani-pedi" she just ordered for me doesn't mean "manly pedicure". Oh well, at least I didn't make a fool of myself while sitting next to that really cute blonde.

Joel C. Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

Thank-you for supporting MexicanArmstrong.org!!!

2 days after completing a successful week of round-2 chemo, getting a manly pedicure with my little sister.


Hippie Mexicans wearing what my mom calls "Burrken-bockers"

Hermano y Hermana - A picture only a mother could love

Mexican of Mass Consumption

Seven days ago I decided to put my healing into overdrive. I kindly asked my family to help me pack on the pounds, and when they saw my determination they gladly obliged.

Soaking up some California Love - City by the Bay. We'll be back soon.

For the past week I have consumed like my life depended on it. My intake of organic nourishment had quadrupled on a daily basis compared to the previous week. I had acquired some secret weapons of nutrition. One of which I found quite effective, Momo's Soup (mi abeula's caldo de pollo).

Some how my body and mind had figured out a away to consistently stay hungry for both food and thought. And I was able to regulate my intake of resources in a whole new way. Fact of the matter is that I am intaking more quality into my life and transforming it into a higher quality product.

My new food diet was working like a charm and the results were reflected on the scale. My second diet was an information diet. I'm very selective about what enters my mind. I now only take in the most important information. This has allowed me to process thought more efficiently and expend my mental energy at the most effective pace possible.

On the way out the door from my doctors appointment last week, his parting words to me were "keep eating." And when I pushed him for details he didn't say much, but he was right-on when he looked at me and said,"What? I'm not giving you a number," referencing a specific weight gain.

See, I have this hunch that he is a gamblin' man. Odds are that if I don't get caught up in the numbers and stay focused, I'll win my bet against cancer. He's offered to meet me in Las Vegas once I'm cured. I've never been, and I didn't think twice about accepting. See you in Vegas Doc!

I want to thank all my family that stood strong this past week and supporting me like only famailia can. Again my healing was dominated by plenty of energy from the women in my life. Starting from my grandmothers, mom, aunts, all the way down to my sister and beyond. I can't express how thankful I am for that.

I want to send a special thank you out to Brooke. She was the catalyst to inspire much of what I accomplished this week and one of the strongest women I have the pleasure of being healed by. Thank you Sweetheart.

-Joel C Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

Me and Esmo shooting some cancer-killing wheatgrass shots!

Brookie's reaction when I insist she eat a piece of bacon.

A smile emerges when she figures out I'm going to eat all of it myself!

Jovan cooking up the cure to cancer - Arroz con Pollo

Dos Hermanos y Dos Equis

What a good day! I got a new haircut, some new hats and my mental game is picking up some serious focus for my 2nd round of ''cocktails'' (chemo). I woke up on Monday morning, looked down at the scale and I knew I was at rock bottom. My high-tech digital scale displayed a scant 151lbs and I felt the weakest I'd been since my diagnosis. I simply could not ignore how emaciated and fragile I was feeling that morning. 

But it didn't take long before I reminded myself who I was and where I was going. Right now I am a force, a mantra, a wave of energy to be recokned with. I am Mexican Armstrong. My single goal - beat this cancer in record time! I've stuck with a strict organic diet and I'm happy to report that I've averaged about a 1 pound gain a day since Monday.  I continue to fortify myself with as much nutirtion as my body can handle. My progress is going well enough that my doctor cleared me for my next chemo treatment a day early. 

This video is just one of my highlights from today. It's hard to describe the satisfaction I achieved from just hanging out with my best friend and drinking a brew. The words of Lupe Fiasco somehow seemed quite phrophetic to me;

 "I think the world, and everything in it is made up of a mix of two things. You got your good and your bad. You got your food, and your liquor" - Lupe Fiasco

So this blog entry goes out to all my familia that would fight a little cancer with a little cerveza. Salud!

-Joel C Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

Dad Buys a $5 MexicanArmstrong.org Wristband

I don't think Blogger supports HD video yet, so in order for you to see the video properly please double-click on the video. It should take you to YouTube where you can watch it in HD!

Not a skinny Mexican for long

Below is an email written to my family to rally them to help fatten me up!

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Fam,

Brookie was kind of enough to start some research for me about a diet I need to aggressively follow over the next 5 days. Now it's time I turn to family to help me put this plan together and execute. I know that a proper diet is not only necessary but crucial to starting off a successful 2nd round of chemo next week. I have every intention to make sure that this happens.

As you know, I feel that the past 7 days has thus far been the most difficult. I have never before felt so drained of both physical and mental energy. But the good news is that I'm physically feeling a little stronger each day. I take this as a very good sign. But even better, mentally and spiritually I can feel a strengthening happening and I know God's ways are with me.

Please read the below emails and help me make next steps to beat this cancer with a vengeance and a little extra fat. Come to think of it, I'm not sure I always liked being the skinny Mexican in the family, everyone's always a little jealous of you.

Love,
Joel C Diaz II
Mexican Armstrong

Starting My New Job - Cancer Survivor

I can't begin to tell you how excited I was about starting my new job today! Which is great news since I've been without work for some months now. There is no doubt that this is going to be the best job I've ever had. And not only that, but I hired myself. Funny thing is, I didn't even have to interview. It was like I was just chosen. My new title? President and CEO of MexicanArmstrong.org. How cool, huh? The hours are great, I work when I can. For the current moment, I'll put in an productive 4-hour day. Right now I am the only employee. But as I watch the nurse mix up some "cocktails", (chemo drugs) I quickly realize that everyone is my co-worker. She hooks the bags of medicine to the top of my poll. I look up and break the gaze my eyes have on the LCD screen. A peaceful yet happy smile emerges from my face. I now know I am going to be a stellar new hire.

Meanwhile, I  sit in this chair, barely noticing that I have something called a "portal" implanted in my chest. Some of the strongest chemicals known to kill a man,  just enough to eradicate his cancer, but keep him alive are being poured into my chest. But, sitting there I realize that I am blessed with a true entrepreneurial spirit. I am now someone who is willing to take upon himself a brave new venture and a sprawling enterprise, and I fully accept responsibility for the outcome. There is no doubt that my new company is going to be a success.

I've got so much excitement about the future of my new organization. I wake up every morning for work and I thank God for this cancer and my new job. There has never been a doubt in my mind that this is my blessing. I am truly thankful for being the miracle that is Mexican Armstrong.

-Joel C Diaz II

Mexican Armstrong

My third day on the job, hard at work developing the very first steps of MexicanArmstrong.org