Help James beat melanoma now

Hello family and friends,
It has been a whirlwind couple of years involving a life-saving trip to Mexico in 2018, an operation in March 2019, a CT scan in August 2019 indicating no evidence of disease and then the difficult news of stage IV melanoma in October 2019.
2020 has been challenging to say the least undergoing several immunotherapy-melanoma trials without success. To compound the situation, I have been hospitalised no less than eight occasions directly related to side effects from melanoma treatment.
My present diagnosis is melanoma in the pelvis, chest and lungs with seemingly no immediate or long-term solution.
The past 12 months has taken a toll on my health and financial stability, as a consequence I am endeavouring to raise funds to support my health over the coming year. This will allow me to purchase much needed supplementation, medicines and specialised nutraceuticals specifically designed to address my health needs. It will also assist in pay ongoing medical expenses.
Metaphorically I have come to another fork in the road (similar to 2018) on my melanoma journey. Raising funds now is a priority because it will give me access to more options when mainstream medicine has all but run out at this time. I haven’t come this far to stop here I want to stay the course but I need help to do so.
I am thoughtful for those close to me it has been a tough 12 months so I just want to say thanks to all who have been exposed to my ups and downs you have all been amazing especially my kids Kate and Nathan and their respective families. I am here today through the support of many incredible souls. My family and I are hoping 2021 will bring much-needed reprieve and healing.
If you feel you can support me in some way, I thank you in advance and wish you a happy Xmas and peaceful 2021.
To gain an insight into my journey thus far 2009-2020 I have outlined my time-line below.
Love and Care to you and your family
James


James Walsh melanoma time line 2009-2020
2009
• June 2009 diagnosed with melanoma in right inguinal lymph node.
• July 2009 surgery- radical excision R inguinal lymph nodes 14 in total.
2010
• 2010 – CT clear.
2011
• 2011- No CT, Bone scan clear.
2012
• June 2012 – CT revealed melanoma progression formation of node mass in right iliac region with additional lymph node swelling in iliac nodes and abdomen.
• July 2012 – began Kristine Matheson protocol.
• September 2012 – Attended Gerson Clinic Mexico.
2013
• March 2013 – CT 17% regression of disease.
• September 2013 – PET Scan no significant progression.
2014
• February 2014 – Increase in symptoms (swelling, pain R groin & thigh).
• Unable to stand on feet had to discontinue Gerson.
• March 2014 CT Scan & ultrasound – minimal progression.
• Melanoma unit Sydney not able to operate due to hardness of node mass referred to oncology who suggested BRAF inhibitor pending criteria for yervoy or similar.
• Researched lymphatic system found Robert Morse ND in Miami specialises in detoxification and the lymphatic system. Consulted Marcie Troyer began a Morse Protocol in March - a raw food protocol supported by herbal formulas.
• March 2014 relocated to Nth Queensland to rest upon arrival not able to stand or sit for longer than 5 minutes, had 4-6 weeks bed rest.
• During this time followed Grape feast (grapes only) for 40 days, followed by lemon juice only for 30 days.
• After the combined 70 days consumed raw food for 6 weeks then did 12 days on lemon juice followed by 4 weeks of raw food taking me to August 2014.
• Consult Dr Greg Schwartz - Gore St Medical Clinic Re. BRAF inhibitor.
• Mobility and pain levels have improved significantly still getting oedema with some symptoms in R lower limb.
• Nodule mass is still present I think has increased in size.
• September 2014 Returned to Sydney attended melanoma unit PET scan revealed melanoma stable with minimal progression.
• September 2014 commence BRAF inhibitor a genetic pharmaceutical designed to block mutating BRAF gene. The BRAF treatment consists of dabrafenib and trametinib.
• After one month on BRAF, recommenced Dr Morse herbal protocol.
• Maintained detox food protocol.
2015
• PET scan March/April 2015, glucose uptake minimal in right node mass.
• Midway through 2015 diagnosed with hypothyroidism refused to see endocrinologist. Consulted Ayurvedic Doctor - Raman Das Mahatyagi and completed 12 sessions of panchakarma - a detox/cleansing process.
• Returned to oncologist after 6 weeks thyroid returned to normal.
2016
• PET scan March 2016 glucose uptake increased in right node mass. This indicates BRAF is beginning to become ineffective.
• Ultra sound revealed blood clot R common femoral vein and long saphenous vein appears collapsed/chronic, possibly from surgical procedure in 2009.
• Put on clexane injection 160 mg per day remained on it till April when I got a superficial hematoma left lower leg anterior compartment- stopped the clexane.
• Currently on curcumin, fish oil and vitamin E for anti - clotting.
• Remained on BRAF for 18 months till May 2016.
• Medical advises to transition on to immunotherapy treatment - keytruda.
• Currently on no medication making decision on my next move.
• Still taking Morse protocol herbs and supporting supplements.
• Commence Keytruda immunotherapy June 2016.
• Mass in Iliac decreases over 1-3 months, continue keytruda cycle once every three weeks.
2017
• Beginning 2017 experienced some swelling in iliac nodes, continue treatment.
• Few months later diagnosed blood clots R leg one in inguinal, inside thigh, popliteal region. Go on clexane, it again makes me sick revert to fish oil, curcumin, vitamin E.
• May /June 2017 begin again to get some symptom iliac nodes, receive scan and minor activity present.
• Blood test showed my cortisol levels had dropped, symptoms included joint pain, weight loss and ongoing oedema in R leg.
• During May/June consulted Ayurvedic Dr Raman Das Mahatyagi he tried to raise level after 4 weeks little change, but did have improvement in immune markers.
• Dr pressure me to take hydrocortisone and resulting consult with endocrinologist reveals Addison’s disease. My anterior pituitary been damaged by keytruda inhibiting ACTH production.
• Consulted my GP for clarity around my situation and oncology referral.
• Consulted integrative practitioner mid -June referred to integrative oncologist and endocrinologist.
• Did 20 days on greens for pituitary (lutein production) in June.
• Appointment with integrative oncologist July 3rd, 2017.
• Consulted integrative endocrinologist during August first appointment went over history and asked to maintain hydrocortisone at 20mgs per day.
• Felt some change in the lymph node mass in August consulted integrative oncologist decided to have a PET scan, it came back clear aside from slight increased physiological activity in lymph node mass. Decide to continue with food and lifestyle, wait and see.
• Consulted integrative endocrinologist after PET scan, has dropped hydrocortisone to 16mgs per day.
• Began using essential oils frankincense, manuka, sandalwood.
• Osteopathy for my lymphatics and general health.
• Maintaining fruit and vegetables, herbs intermittently for lymphatics, kidneys, liver and gallbladder, chemical detox, upper circulation, vitamin C, D each day, chlorella plus heavy metal remover, aloe vera.
• September/October 2017 – remaining stable, experiencing some discomfort in R Iliac due to see integrative oncologist Oct 23.
• Had another PET Scan – results showed some improvement decrease physiological activity centre of mass not active.
• Maintaining fruit, veg, herbs from Jivana Detox – all body systems, Siberian ginseng, frankincense, osteopathy for lymphatics, vit C, ashwaganda, green banana powder, moringa, maca powder, methyl—active.
• November green fruits and vegetables for 2 weeks.
• December 2017 Incorporated Amino Neuro Frequency (ANF) Therapy for lymphatic function.
• Have been experiencing discomfort R iliac, appointment with integrative oncologist to discuss. Has given me some pharmaceutical options if required. Making decision.
• There is a definite change in my iliac region pain has increased, mass has increased.
• Integrative oncologist suggests four options; chemo, radiation, BRAF, immune therapy. I choose to do BRAF (same one I used in 2014-16). Started December 19th, 2017.
• Consult acupuncturist/herbalist.
• December 30th – there has been a reduction in pain and the mass size seems slightly less, my mobility is better.
• Maintaining fruit, veg, herbs and supplements, using Essiac tea as well.
• I have been researching over the past 2 months the possibility of attending an overseas clinic. Medical oncology in Australia has no non-toxic treatment options.
2018
• Supplements January 2018- moringa, ashwagandha, maca powder, raw greens, banana powder, zeolite powder, probiotic, BRAF frequencies (kinesiology), Vitamin D, Essiac tea, heal all and kidney tea, turmeric, black seed oil, frankinsense, Chinese herbs re; immune function.
• PET scan reveals metastatic involvement L and R lung, whilst minor changes to iliac node mass. Currently waiting for medical options relative to changes.
• March 2018 consult melanoma institute in Sydney.
• Keytruda immunotherapy 19th March 2018, continuing food – fruit and veg and supplements including Ayurvedic herbs, Budwig protocol.
• June 2018, I have received 4 cycles of keytruda had a PET scan 31st May my lungs have improved but I have a few lymph nodes inflamed in my pelvis, plus a slight increase in the size of the lymph node mass in my iliac region.
• Currently doing a few days on lemon water and Ayurvedic herbs, supplements.
• Mid-June experienced infected tooth had to have antibiotic, had a whole-body reaction to medication resulting in 10 days of illness lost 5 kg.
• End of June keytruda stopped – having trouble standing up.
• Consulted radiologist at Melanoma Institute Sydney.
• Spoke to Sydney oncologist discussed going overseas for treatment prior to beginning any further consultation with Melanoma Institute.
• Confirmed booking at St Andrews Mexico for 31- day treatment plan for variety of immunotherapies and rest.
• July 5th – August 9 - 2018 begin treatment St Andrews Clinic Tijuana. Using a modified Gerson diet including juices and coffee enemas.
• August 11th return to Sydney.
• August 13th Melanoma Institute schedule PET scan August 28th.
• August 29th PET scan reveals significant improvement with disease regression.
• October 4th Frequency medicine assessment Byron Bay
• October 12th Colonoscopy results are clear.
• October/November 2018 begin treatment St Andrews Clinic Tijuana. Using a modified Gerson diet including juices and coffee enemas.
• Bio-medical centre Tijuana – assessment and prescription for Hoxsey Tonic.
• November 19th PET Scan
• November 20th begin Hoxsey Tonic.
• November 23rd meet with oncologist PET results are good just a slight uptake SUV in one of the lymph nodes rest of the mass remains stable as per previous scan. Oncologist refers me to Surgeon for possible removal of remaining mass.
• December surgeon optimistic of removal although currently the operation is still challenging, suggests I resume taking dacarbazine a chemo drug I used in Mexico.
2019
• January 2019 meet with oncologist to discuss dacarbazine, he is in favour of using dacarbazine if I want to but prefers radiation combined with immunotherapy (Keytruda). Oncologist refers me to radiologist.
• January meet with radiologist she is optimistic about using radiation and immunotherapy.
• January 30th PET scan – results pending.
• February meet with oncologist PET scan is still looking good melanoma still isolated.
• February melanoma institute multidisciplinary meeting to discuss best option for me to pursue, oncologist contacts me and discusses findings of the meeting. Radiation is now not preferred, surgery is the preferred treatment.
• February meet with surgeon Robyn Saw she is confident of removing the mass though cautious of the difficulty of the procedure.
• February meet with oncologist and begin a short course of BRAF dabrafenib/trametinib up until operation.
• February operation scheduled for March 19
• March 19 operation at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. Five-hour procedure to remove lymph mass in R iliac external nodes. Surgeon Robin Saw pleased with procedure waiting for pathology report.
• March RPA recovery in RPA.
• April recovery at home.
• May CT scan pelvis draining well no disease.
• Energy healing with Stephen Bishop.
• Energy healing Betty McGill.
• Kinesiology - metabolic response with Clive Farrelly.
• August CT scan no evidence of disease.
• Kinesiology – Clive Farrelly.
• October- felt an enlarged lymph node in left groin.
• Ultrasound confirmed abnormal lymph node.
• November see oncologist discuss options.
• PET scan – left groin one active lymph node, larger lymph mass in right pelvis above area of previous lymph node removal, spots in lower lungs, one spot in upper left lung.
• Discuss results with oncologist. He suggests radiotherapy on larger mass and keytruda for cleaning up lungs and left groin lymph node.
• Discuss findings with Gar Hildenbrand from St Andrews Tijuana.
• Appointment with radiologist to discuss treatment.
• Began keytruda at Royal North Shore Hospital.
• In early December I had a consult with a naturopath from Tasmania Jillian Shepheard I sent her a copy of my health timeline and a medical history she discusses my recurring ‘self -punishment’, she feels I need to resolve this. I contact David Lomman and we do hypnotherapy around the subject.
I also contact Cath Mc Dowell herbalist from Bathurst and she makes me up some formulas to use over the coming months. Cath also makes me up a version of Hoxsey tonic to support my immune system. I also use homeopathics from Olga Araya.
• Mater Hospital measured up for radiotherapy to begin December 4.
• Mater Hospital 3 weeks of radiotherapy
• Tracey Jones Osteopath cranio-sacral
• No side effects from radiation except localised swelling it was a smooth process
• Continue keytruda every 3 weeks at RNS over Xmas and into January 2020
• Clive Farrelly Chiropractic metabolic kinesiology
• Stephen Bishop energy healing
2020
• Scheduled PET scan Feb 5 2020 to reassess treatment protocols
• Scan results on Friday Feb 7, mixed results where I have had radiation in the right pelvis the lymph node had halved in size and is non active, the left inguinal lymph node has grown slightly and increased in SUV uptake. The lungs are stable with some improvement and a couple of new nodal EOD.
• Discuss results with oncologist and decide to enrol in a trial using ketyruda and yervoy together which was recommended to me by Gar Hildenbrand (St Andrews in Mexico) 3 months ago but the yervoy was not available to me as a patient at that time so this trial is timely. The drug on the trial is called MK 1803, it is an updated version of yervoy made by roche.
• Attend Melanoma Institute for testing plus MRI on brain at the Mater hospital. MRI was clear and I have qualified for the trial.
• Begin trial on the 21st February 2020 at the Melanoma Institute and infusion at the Mater.
• June 17 2020 met with oncologist yesterday discussed another trial which begins in 3 weeks. Past two scans have shown progression of disease so MK1308 and keytuda is not working.
• July 2020 begin 2nd trial Interleukin 2 and keytruda.
Infusion 1 - Had reaction after infusion remained in hospital for 3 days – fever, body pain
Infusion 2 - Had reaction after infusion was kept overnight in hospital went home next day.
• Atrial fibrillation – diagnosed Sutherland Hospital after eating cacao.
Infusion 3 - Had reaction at home after infusion blood pressure dropped 60/30
Nathan took me to Melanoma Institute they rang ambulance immediately taken to Northshore. Went home from Nth shore after a few days ended up back at Sutherland hospital on weekend with Atrial fibrillation
• October begin BRAF - cobimetinib and vemurafenib half dosing continuous.
• October 10 (10 days later) hospitalised with chemical reaction allergic reaction possibly BRAF has interacted with previous treatment. Full body rash and facial swelling, 10 days in Sutherland Hospital. Brain CT, X-ray, antibiotic 3-4 days. Did not restart the BRAF medication
• November begin new BRAF – encorafenib and binimetinib sequential dosing staggered.
• November 24th hospitalised Sutherland oral bleeding – CT shows lung infection L lower lobe, X-ray. Five days in hospital-10 days antibiotic utilised probiotic and pre and probiotic foods.
• November 28 – Ayurveda consult- Raman Das Mahatyagi, herbs for recovery/rebuild.
• Early December- continue BRAF – encorafenib and binimetinib full strength continuous.
• December 5 – kinesiology Clive Farrelly.
• December 10 – meet with radiologist discuss radiotherapy, L groin lymph nodes.
• December 14 – radiotherapy assessment.

Thanks to my practitioner and education support over the years……
Ian Gawler (Lifestyle program), Kristine Matheson (Specific anti-cancer protocol), Gerson Clinic Mexico, Kathryn Alexander (Gerson), Jo Thompson (Gerson), Louise Eddy (Yoga therapy), Sherrill Sellman (Genetic profile), Metatherapy (Frequency therapy), Anissa Au (Acupuncture and herbs), Greg Fitzgerald (Naturopath), David Lomman Naturopath (RBTI & Spiritual Counsel), Petrea King (Quest for life), Marcie Troyer (Robert Morse Naturopathic Protocol), Don Tolman (Treatment plan email consult), Oasis of Hope (Dr Contreras treatment plan email consult), Linda Dedekind (Lymphatic drainage & body talk) Mick Miller (Performance coach), Matt Griggs (Kelee meditation), Donna Lambert (Massage Therapy), Core Naturopathic, Lynnette Arkadie (The Soul Factory - Energetic reading and healing), Christine Harpley (Yoga therapy), Linda Apps (Yoga therapy), Clive Farrelly (Kinesiology), Raman Das Mahatyagi (Ayurveda), Peter Dingle (Associate Professor Environmental Scientist), Brett Stevens (Kinesiology), Tracey Jones (Osteopath), Chris Solomon (Chiropractic), Aideen Osborn (Physiotherapy/Acupuncture), Do terra– essential oils, Rod Wainwright (Amino Neuro Frequency Therapy), Dr Chen (Acupuncture and herbs), David Freeland (Osteopath), Kevin Niv Farrow (Acuenergetics), St Andrews Clinic Mexico (Dr Munoz, Dr Cedeno, Gar Hildenbrand), Robbie Holz (spiritual healing), Rory Perry (Aboriginal shamanic healing), Mei Hung Lee Lai (Acupuncture), Kieran Weston (One Organic Health), St Andrews Clinic Tijuana Mexico, Gar Hildenbrand (Epidemiologist), A/Prof. Alex Menzies (oncologist), A/Prof. Robyn Saw (surgeon), Team at RPA, Stephen Bishop (Energy Healer), Betty McGill (Energy Healer), Jillian Shepheard (Naturopath), Catherine McDowell (Herbalist), Exhale Colon Hydrotherapy, Maria Lovecchio (Spiritual Healing), Gary Bignold (Acupuncture).