Everyone is Touched


According to the American Cancer Society,an estimated 1.7 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in 2018.

At any given moment, there are 15.5 million living with a history of cancer. While some of these individuals were recently diagnosed, most were diagnosed many years ago and have no evidence of cancer.

Cancer touches everyone at some point, some time.

"Courage is
grace under pressure"

Contact info:

Survivors Outdoor Experience

403 South Lincoln Street
Suite 4, PMB 85
Port Angeles, WA. 98362

Phone: 360-477-1619

Great Day On The River

We had a gorgeous day on the river!  Thanks to everyone who attended and the 3Rivers Outdoor Company for a fun time! Such a great day for an August paddle on the Allegheny River.

The Trilogy; The final chapter of a 20-year journey

The diagnosis, The surgeries, Finishing radiation

I never felt like I had really done anything to become a brain cancer survivor. Like it wasn’t as if I had done something special. I was just there doing my best to get through this surreal situation.

I did take charge of the situation from the beginning. Never admitting to myself that it was as bad as it looked. Some might call this denial, but I prefer to call it manifesting success. I wanted to see myself as a survivor.

Nothing more than that. Not a victim. No soul searching. No feeling like I needed to live every day as if it was my last. No reflecting all my life of 41 years. Just being a survivor.

There were decisions to be made. I realized the first step of becoming a survivor was to do some research. Part of this next step was to realize that I needed to find my doctor and be decisive about who I chose.   

The one thing that I felt that I did achieve was to keep living my life the way I always had and that helped me believe that I would come out the other side. I also made a conscious effort to show everyone else that I was doing this without speaking about it.

I speak about it now and have been speaking about it over a period of many years as I feel it is important for people to hear about it. To hear my story, yes, but to relate my story of impossible odds to their own. Or to see this story and share it with someone who could use it.

These situations are difficult, complex, nuanced and scary. There is no simple or direct way to approach how to respond to your situation. Because every situation in a cancer diagnosis is different.

What type of cancer? How does it respond to treatment? Should I ask ‘What are my likely odds’? Do I want to know the answer to that? No one knows what it’s like for you. Because there is only one you.

The last decision that I needed to make was to have radiation. This was an easy decision as I was told that in my case this would be painless. I would have to go five days a week for 30 treatments.

I was told that there would be two side effects. The first was a short-term situation of becoming increasingly tired and run-down as treatment progressed. The other would be a lifelong mutation of my hair follicles on the left side of my head.    

I mostly recovered from the fatigue within a couple of months. The hair loss didn’t bother me if it meant long term success as that was the only thing that mattered. On some days I looked at it as a badge of honor, like the huge scar that it barely concealed.

This treatment was the last piece of the puzzle needed to move on with the rest of my life. I needed to celebrate the occasion in fine fashion, and I knew just the proper way of doing it.

Pittsburgh Penguins legend Mario Lemieux gave me the inspiration for my celebration idea. He went through radiation and decided that he would play the night that he finished his treatments.    *See attached story from 2017 below

This vision was exactly what I needed. I would ski on my last day (6/3/24) of radiation.

As a long-time back country skier, my answer to the celebration was clear. I enlisted my ski partner Dave to be there, and he was more than willing to join me. I also invited several others to join us.

In the end… It was one of the most memorable days of my journey. Several people showed up to join in the festivities to celebrate and this all made me feel like I was going to be a survivor.

Now, here I am…where I never thought I’d be as I skied down that first run 20 years ago today!   

 

 

* Skiing to Celebrate my Anniversary

When I moved to Port Angeles, Washington in 1991 I carried the memories of witnessing game two of the Stanley Cup Finals. This was the game that Mario Lemieux made the iconic goal against the Minnesota North Stars that changed the series and lifted Mario into legendary status with his performance. What we saw as impossible to achieve…he brought to reality via pure will and creativity.

In 1993 he was living his life as the hero and savior of Penguins Hockey after leading his team to back-to-back Stanley Cups Titles. He was having another strong year, crushing the scoring competition with his incredible play.

Then…he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Disease…Cancer. Although it is a less problematic type of cancer…with a five-year survival rate today of 81 percent…it is still cancer. With treatments that included radiation.

On March 2nd, 1993, Mario finished radiation and booked a charter flight in order to play that night in Philadelphia. He scored a goal and assisted on another. Amazing…

In November of 2003 I had a seizure to alert me to the fact that I had something inside my head that didn’t belong there, a brain tumor. With my confidence in the medical facilities in Pittsburgh and the support of my family, I chose to have surgery there.

After hearing ‘it’s worse than we thought’ in regard to the level of concern the tumor presented, I opted for an advised second surgery. Everything went well and I am thankful for the level of care that I received.

I received my radiation treatments when I returned home to Washington. As my treatments were wrapping up, I remembered Mario’s story and thought about the possibility of using it for motivation.

It was in that tradition that I chose to do… what I wish I did as well as Mario played hockey…ski. We typically have snow in June, and I thought ‘why not?’.  With this inspiration I skied the afternoon of my last day of radiation with several friends…and had a blast.  On June 3rd I was able to ski on the 13th anniversary…a yearly tradition. (conditions permitting)

At the bottom of the run...Klahanie Ridge. It was like skiing inside a ping-pong ball...but hey...it was skiing.

At the bottom of the run…Klahanie Ridge. It was like skiing inside a ping-pong ball…but hey…it was skiing.

Mario went on to do all he could to keep the Penguins in Pittsburgh as part owner and now they have the most successful team in the league. (Five Cups!) He also created the Mario Lemieux Foundation. He is now 22 years cancer free and devotes much of his time at the Foundation raising funds for to help reach the ultimate goal: a cure for cancer.

His approach to hand that he was dealt again motivated me. I have been a lifetime fan of using the natural world as my playground and sanctuary. I had years of experience in outdoor recreation and leading others to expand their appreciation of our natural world.

With this history I created Survivor’s Outdoor Experience. Our programming is directed towards the ultimate goal of giving participants strength, hope and a sense of the future.

It is a personal journey to fight this disease known as cancer and we all have our path. Mario used winning the scoring title as his motivation (he did win it) and I used it to get back to normal as mine. With the inspiration of his story.

Thanks & Congrats, Mario.

 

 

 

Join Survivor’s Outdoor Experience for two upcoming events!

Come join us on Sunday, April 14th, 9 a.m. at Harrison Hills Park for a bird-watching walk. Our walk will be led by two graduates of Audubon Society of Western PA Master Birding Program, Jessica Lakari, and Dave Brooke. Jessica is an experienced hiker and became interested in birding four years ago after attending a Christmas Bird Count at North Park. She loves sharing her passion for the outdoors and birding with others. Dave got interested in bird watching by attending a guided walk at Harrison Hills 8 years ago. He saw a Hooded Warbler for the first time on that walk and began a lifelong passion for birding and bird photography. You can view Dave’s photography at DDB Photography. Please email kganster@verizon.net to let us know that you are coming by April 5th. Space is limited. Hope to see you there!

 

On Saturday, April 20th, SOE will be hosting Forest Bathing at 10 a.m., Emmerling Park, Indiana Township. What is forest bathing? As relaxing as the photo below looks, it isn’t taking a bath in the forest. According to Dr. Doug Jones, “Forest Bathing: The Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing in English) is a slow, sensory-based walk in the woods, during which we focus on the sights, sounds, smells, feels, and tastes of nature. This is neither a naturalist exploration nor a fitness trek; this walk is about soaking in the health benefits of spending relaxed time in nature. It’s also about tending and mending our relationships with nature, ourselves, and others. Join us and experience nature’s power to soothe, refresh, and open your heart. Who knows what surprises nature may have in store? There are no requirements – just come as you are.” Our guide, Douglas Jones, Ph.D., is an experienced guide, trained and certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs. We are super excited to host this program! Email kganster@verizon.net or text 412-377-8364 for more info. or to reserve a spot.

As always, all SOE programming is free for survivors, caregivers, and friends. Visit: www.survivorsoutdoorexperience.org for more information.

IT WAS TWENTY YEARS AGO TODAY!

“It was twenty years today” was the famous quote from the Beatles Seargent Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. My twenty years ago today has a slightly different meaning.

This is the day (2/19/04) that I was released from the hospital…for the second time. I was back in the hospital to have a re-resection I might add.

Two weeks earlier I had the most extraordinary five day stretch of my life (1/31/04-2/04/04). Day four was the day that I had a cancerous brain tumor resected from my head. The surgery was deemed a success.  

This day had been scheduled since the beginning of January after making the appointment with the surgeon, Doctor Ghassan Bejjani.  

Let me explain the five-day period. Day one was the craniotomy…cracking the egg. Day two was motor mapping…testing that all bad and only bad tissue would be removed. Day three the surgeon had another surgery. Day four was the surgery, and day five I was released from the hospital.

Yes, I was released from the ICU to the car to have dinner at home that night. I don’t know if he had that much confidence in me or himself.

It was great to move on and deal with the next step. However, the next step was a step back. I went back to get the staples removed and was told “it’s worse than we thought”.

And that is why I had that second surgery. That original surgery was not quite the success as first thought. But the second one was.

Now I find myself in a different situation. I had chosen to do radiation. I felt that this was my only choice for long-term survival. Then I could deal with the consequences from the long-term effects of not only radiation damage, but from the damage of the surgery itself.

Say 19 years down the road.

We have known that I have been incurring brain damage due to the radiation over time. I have not shown much outward or noticeable signs of this, but I can tell.

Throughout my 20 year-stretch I have had what I would call micro neuro episodes. My neuro oncologist extraordinaire, Doctor Lynne Taylor says to just call them what they are… mini seizures.

During a visit with her several years ago, she had suggested that I begin taking anti-seizure medication. At the time, I did not due to the cost of medication and the infrequency of these events. The severity also seemed to be in check.

A year ago, however, I experienced four of them in only a two-week time period with two of them having a slightly higher impact on my body. I have never lost consciousness and know what is taking place throughout.

I have learned the feelings in my body prior to the event and I am typically completely over them within two hours. Sometimes they are not very intense but occasionally they were, and the overall feeling is that it was time for a change.

I had a visit with Doctor Taylor and began taking anti-seizure medication on 1/21/23 and since then, have been dealing with the repercussions of the events and of the side effects of the medication.

It took some time to get the level of medications figured out, a process I am still working on. But now I have been stable for over four months.

I have looked at it this way…there really isn’t much of a difference between an injury and an acute medical situation…many times it takes four to six weeks to heal or correct itself.

But with a long-term chronic situation…the longer something goes unchecked (19 years) the longer it’s likely to take to correct.

And if we go back to the injury analysis…maybe a young guy would be as good as new in four to six weeks…but I am no longer a young guy.

I do feel young for my age but it’s not the same as actually being young.   

Many of you know what it is like to go from no medications to starting a ‘rest of your life’ daily regimen. It can be problematic getting all the moving parts to align.

I know that I am likely to be ‘playing’ with medications a little bit. But I can even go for a compromise…It would be nice to not address this as an ongoing part of my life.

And I do not underestimate the power of those 20 years in my rear-view mirror.

I am not writing this because I need to get it off my chest. I have already been through that, and it is a good idea even if you write it to yourself.

I am doing it because I feel that others may need to know that they are not alone in their struggles.

Stay strong!

 

Cheers,

Jack

IT HAS BEEN 20 YEARS!

Not Just Another Day!

For most of you … November 2nd, 2003, was just another day. Maybe you watched football on TV…or even went to the game. But even if your team won…I don’t think that you can remember the details of the day as well as I do.

For me…It was not just another day. A group of us were gathering in Seattle for the Seahawks vs. Steelers game when my life changed forever. As I was trying to speak to my friends…I became unable to talk…and I passed out. When I woke up in a hospital bed with a bad headache, I didn’t know why I had passed out…but I vaguely remembered something with my speech… and not being able to talk.

I was introduced to my new reality when a young doctor escorted me down the hall as she told me that I just had seizure. We came to a room full of images. The images were from an MRI of the brain…my brain. As an added bonus…the images revealed that I had something inside my head that didn’t belong there…a tumor.

The feelings associated with this announcement are difficult to explain…shock and disbelief are a good place to start. Eventually these emotions were followed by denial…resignation…and eventually…resolve.

I was actually fortunate that I had the seizure to alert me of the tumor’s existence- I may be alive because of it! There is a good chance that without that moment in time, I may have lived with an unknown tumor until it was too late.

Every time that I reflect back to this part of my life, I pass by many pit-stops along the way. I can’t simply jump to the beginning of my journey without visiting some of the memories associated with this moment in time.

I remember the uncertain path that I was to follow to get where I am today. It was hard to imagine that I would still be here today…16 years later. But I did imagine…and I decided that that my best course of action was to manifest success.

I went through three different surgeries…direct placement chemotherapy…and finally radiation. It was time to begin my post treatment life…to see a future. I celebrated my last day of radiation, June 3rd, 2004, by going backcountry skiing. Not only was it great fun…it represented living my life as if nothing had changed.

As I moved forward, I would see periodic news stories about a high-profile person like politicians, sport stars, and rock stars being diagnosed with this insidious disease. I became closer to them because of this connection…and followed their stories. It’s not that I liked them more than I had before. It’s simply that we now had an unwanted kinship. I still have a highly personal reaction when I hear the news of a celebrity or someone in our community is diagnosed.

Treatment is not highly successful and every time someone falls…it has an effect on me. There are certainly success stories…and this also has an effect on me. When I first asked myself ‘is this survivor’s guilt’? I came to the realization that it was survivor’s relief…and even survivor’s disbelief. I learned to move past any feelings of guilt. They did not die in order for me to keep living… I am simply a fortunate survivor.

So I take this day to think about all of those who have been diagnosed with brain tumors since that day…and I share my story for those who may follow me in this journey. When we acknowledge the survivor’s…we give reason for hope.

It may seem odd to celebrate the anniversary of this moment in time. But this was the beginning of my new reality…and my path forward. It is my intention to celebrate this path forward for years to come! 

 

Survivor’s Outdoor Experience partners with 3 Rivers Outdoor Company for hike and campfire

Enjoy the brisk fall weather with a hike and campfire sponsored by Survivor’s Outdoor Experience and 3 Rivers Outdoor Company on Friday, October 13th at 6 p.m. Starting at 3 Rivers Outdoor Company in Regent Square, we will take an easy hour and a half walk in Frick Park followed by fun and fellowship campfire at 3ROC. S’more makings, snacks and beverages will be provided. You can also purchase brews from Brew Gentleman at 3ROC.

If you wish, you may skip the walk and meet us at the campfire pit outside of 3ROC at 7:30 p.m. for snacks and fellowship. Event is free.

 

Please RSVP at kganster@verizon.net or 412-377-8364 .  For more information out Survivor’s Outdoor Experience, visit www.outdoorexperience.org. 3 Rivers Outdoor Company is Pittsburgh’s only independently owned outdoor shop. Visit: https://3riversoutdoor.com/.

 

 

*Next on the calendar is the fall meditative hike at North Park Latodami Center on Weds., Oct. 18th at 6 p.m. Please let us know if you are interested in that as well. More info. to follow!

 

Kayak Adventure

SOE’s fourth kayaking event with LL Bean at North Park Lake, Pittsburgh, was a huge success. We had another great day with 19 guests enjoying some time out on the lake under the direction of our wonderful LL Bean guides. It was relaxing while getting to know other cancer survivors. Thanks to all who joined us.

SOE adds new series of programs

Survivor’s Outdoor Experience invites cancer survivors, caregivers/support person and friends to three upcoming events.

First on the agenda will be the return of our meditation hike with Gineen Jarnevich on Wednesday, September 6th at 6 p.m. starting at the Latodami Barn, North Park.

The evening begins with a brief discussion before the hike about the benefits of nature and meditation. Then participants will do some relaxation and breathing before walking slowly and quietly for about 1/2 an hour. Gineen will give occasional reminders to bring people back to the present. There will be time for questions and discussion afterward. Participants should wear walking shoes that they don’t mind getting muddy, and bring whatever keeps them  comfortable-water, hiking poles, etc. This is an easy walk. Light snacks will be provided afterwards for those who wish to stay for further discussion and fellowship.

Gineen is a nurse who is also an outdoor enthusiast who has been teaching yoga and meditation for 20 years. She leads the mediative hikes for the Allegheny County Parks at North Park as well.

 

Another SOE  favorite is back with the 3rd kayaking event. Enjoy the colors of fall out on North Park Lake as SOE partners with LL Bean for a kayaking morning on Saturday, Sept. 23rd from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Who knows? You may even spot a heron, eagle, or beaver!

Kayaking will be held at North Park, LL Bean Outpost, and boat launch from 11a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is free for all cancer survivors and friends. All experience levels are welcome – instruction is provided as well as personal floatation devices. Light snacks and fellowship will follow. Space is limited.

 

Enjoy the brisk fall weather with a hike and campfire sponsored by Survivor’s Outdoor Experience and 3 Rivers Outdoor Company on Friday, October 13th at 6 p.m. Starting at 3 Rivers Outdoor Company in Regent Square, we will take an easy hour and a half walk in Frick Park followed by fun and fellowship campfire at 3ROC. S’more makings, snacks and beverages will be provided. You can also purchase brews from Brew Gentleman at 3ROC.

 

If you wish, you may skip the walk and meet us at the campfire pit outside of 3ROC at 7:30 p.m. for snacks and fellowship.

 

Survivor’s Outdoor Experience provides outdoor activities for those on their cancer journey and their caregivers/partners/friends. SOE considers anyone who has heard the words “You have cancer” a survivor. Survivors and their guests are free for these events.

 

All events are free for cancer survivors, caregivers/support person and friends. Please note space is limited for events. Please register in advance.  For more information or to register, please email: kganster@verizon.net or call 412-377-8364. For more information out Survivor’s Outdoor Experience, visit www.outdoorexperience.org.

Join us for Yoga on Mars

Don’t forget to register!!! Come join Survivor’s Outdoor Experience and Yoga on Mars for a gentle restorative yoga class on Friday, June 2nd at 7:30 p.m. at Yoga on Mars, 222 Mars Valencia Road, Mars PA 16046.
This class is free for cancer survivors, caregivers, friends, and family. From the those who have never experienced yoga before to the most experienced yogis, all are welcome. Space is limited so please register by emailing kganster@verizon.net or 412-377-8364 by Weds., May 24th to reserve your spot. Others will be welcome to register for free-will donation after May 24th. For more information on Yoga on Mars, visit: www.yogaonmars.com

Successful Nature Hike

We had a wonderful night for our nature walk at Irwin Run last night. Thanks to all who came out for this relaxing and informative walk! Special thanks to Ken Knapp and Ray Morris for sharing their knowledge with us. So wonderful to bring this program to our community. Please look for more walks later in the summer.

Looking forward to yoga on June 2nd!

 

SOE East adds a Spring Nature Hike on May 4th

On Thursday, May 4th, come join SOE and Ken Knapp for a nature walk at Irwin Run. Ken is a Master Naturalist, a Master Birder, and retired assistant naturalist from North Park. We will take an easy 2–3-mile hike along Irwin Run, a natural area that is an Allegheny Land Trust Area and adjacent to North Park. Ken will discuss this natural area including birds, plants, and other critters that we may spot. We will meet at the intersection of Jackson and Irwin Roads in Gibsonia. Those who register will be provided with exact coordinates. The walk begins at 6 p.m. and lasts approximately two hours. The hike is free and open to all cancer survivors, caregivers, friends, and family.

 

Please register at kganster@verizon.net or send a PM.

Join us for this event!

 

Holiday Nidra Yoga Returns

 

Please join SOE on Thursday, December 15th at 8 p.m. EST for our third annual free Holiday Nidra Yoga session. Our dear friend and favorite yogi, Cindi, will offer this relaxing session to help you destress and recharge for holiday festivities. The class is offered via Zoom so it is available to everyone and you can participate in your jammies! Please invite your friends as well. If you are interested, please email kganster@verizon.net for the Zoom link. Happy holidays from SOE.

 

 

Kayak event a success! 10/15/22

We had such a lovely day…for a lovely group of Survivors’ and their companions! So thankful for the weather, our participants, and our guides from L.L.Bean.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kayak event coming October 15th

SOE East (Pittsburgh) – our fall kayaking has been moved from Sept. 24th to Oct. 15th. Kayaking is free for all participants and invite a friend!  The event will be held at North Park, Outpost and boat launch from 11a.m. to 12:30 p.m. If you are interested, please email: kganster@verizon.net.

 

Mediation Hike offered for Cancer Survivors and Care Givers

Join Survivor’s Outdoor Experience (SOE) for a meditation hike on Tuesday, June 28th at 6 p.m. Gineen Jarnevich will lead a guided walk starting at the Latodami Barn, North Park.

The evening begins with a brief discussion before the hike about the benefits of nature and meditation. Then participants will do some relaxation and breathing before walking slowly and quietly for about 1/2 an hour. Gineen will give occasional reminders to bring people back to the present. There will be time for questions and discussion afterward. Participants should wear walking shoes that they don’t mind getting muddy, and bring whatever keeps them  comfortable-water, hiking poles, etc.

Light snacks will be provided afterwards for those who wish to stay for further discussion and fellowship.

Gineen is a nurse who is also an outdoor enthusiast who has been teaching yoga and mediation for 20 years. “I love bringing the joy and benefits of both to others in the beauty of our local parks,” she said.

Cancer survivors and care givers/support person are welcome to attend. This event is free. Please register in advance by emailing kganster@verizon.net or 412-377-8364. Size of group is limited.

 

SOE is an educational and recreational organization that has created  programs to provide cancer survivors an opportunity to learn more about the benefits of living a healthy and active lifestyle. The program provides informative presentations balanced with recreational activities to assist participants in gaining strength, confidence, and a sense of the future. For more information about SOE visit: www.survivorsoutdoorexperience.org/  

In tribute to the matriarch of the Ganster family

Thank you to all who donated to SOE in honor of Lillian “Dolly” Ganster who passed on August 10th. Dolly was the mother of SOE founder Jack Ganster and instilled a love of the outdoors in Jack at a very early age. She will be greatly missed, but each SOE outing will be a tribute to this amazing woman.

We truly want to thank all of you for support, both thoughtfulness and with donations. As one gifting person said, ‘In memory of Dolly Ganster and all of the love that she brought into this world.’

SOE has received over $1,000 from family and friends…for our family and friends program. Even in her passing, she was giving.

Thanks, again to all those who contributed.

 

Jack and Dolly enjoy a laugh when she delivered many delicious calories during his 1985 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike

UPMC Headways article Features SOE Executive Director

Since 2007, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center has been publishing a micro-magazine called Headway. The magazine is directed towards news on advances in the prevention, detection, and treatment of head and neck cancers. Part educational, part informative and part inspirational. I was asked to contribute my ‘Becoming a Survivor’ story. I am honored to be featured on page two in the Summer 2020 publication.

https://hillmanresearch.upmc.edu/wp-content/uploads/Headway-Summer-2020.pdf?fbclid=IwAR3KZ73HMNGDLv2cNxyDZtsFMGO5aTYpAEk4gVhx9rfsgXmss_brNaDaD5U

 

SOE Healing Adventure Retreat East a grand event!

Our first SOE event in Pittsburgh was amazing. Chatham University Eden Hall Campus offered up everything in a retreat location that we could have asked for…a peaceful setting, wonderful staff, and great food.

Thanks to all of our donors and our sponsors 3 Rivers Outdoor Co. and Notcho Nocheez to help us make this weekend a reality. Thanks to our volunteers…especially our presenters…who gave their time to provide meaningful programs to our Family & Friends Healing Adventure Retreat: Maggi Aebi, Marlene Fritsch, Carol Burgman, Elizabeth Schandelmeier, Wendy Meyers, and the Better Late Than Never Band.

Such a fabulous group of folks! Thanks to all who participated in the first SOE Adventure Healing Retreat East at Chatham University Eden Hall Campus. #SOEEAST #SOE

Posted by Survivor's Outdoor Experience on Thursday, July 4, 2019

Posted by Survivor's Outdoor Experience on Friday, July 5, 2019

Great way to start the day…

Posted by Survivor's Outdoor Experience on Friday, July 5, 2019

Our weekend finale…a kayak adventure at North Park.

And a special THANKS  to our amazing PARTICIPANTS!

 

Healing Adventure Retreat at NatureBridge a wonderful success.

Good times during our 2019 Adventure!

Thanks to all involved…participants…presenters…NatureBridge staff and our Board members that put this all together. Great to have such support to bring these smiles…to these faces!

It takes a village:  Presenters Tim McNulty, Mikel Townsley, Julie Jacobson, Teri Applegate….support including Dan, Gay, Kat and of course the folks that come out to learn, share, and smile!

What a crew…looks like good times.

Posted by Survivor's Outdoor Experience on Thursday, May 23, 2019

Look at this beautiful scenery and these happy folks! SOE 2019 Retreat – West.

Posted by Survivor's Outdoor Experience on Wednesday, May 22, 2019

The famous signature boat ride from this year's retreat!

Posted by Survivor's Outdoor Experience on Thursday, May 23, 2019

Announcing the 2019 Healing Adventure Retreats

We are excited to be hosting two programs this year as we introduce our first Healing Adventure Retreat in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This ‘satellite’ offering will bring our programming to Jack’s hometown as we extend our services to the Keystone State.

The ‘classic’ Retreat at NatureBridge will be held May, 17-19 and the Chatham University at Eden Hall will take place June, 28-30.

https://naturebridge.org/locations/olympic

https://www.edenhall.chatham.edu

Survivor’s Outdoor Experience (SOE) is an educational and recreational organization that has created a program to provide cancer survivors of all ages an opportunity to learn about the benefits of living a healthy and active lifestyle.  Friends & Family was created for individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer and a companion(if they choose to be accompanied).

The program provides a curriculum of informative presentations balanced with recreational activities. The goal is to assist participants in gaining strength, hope, and a sense of the future.

Who is a Survivor?

At SOE the belief is that you become a ‘survivor’ at the moment of your critical diagnosis. You do not need a certain time period to elapse, nor do you need wait for test results to become a ‘survivor’. It is natural to consider yourself a ‘victim’ at first, but you need to look at it this way…being a ‘victim’ is a state of body and being a ‘survivor’ is a state of mind.

 

Please use our contact page if you have any questions.

 

Not Just Another Day

 

For most of you … November 2nd, 2003 was just another day. Maybe you watched football on TV…or even went to the game. But even if your team won…I don’t think that you can remember the details of the day as well as I do.

For me…It was not just another day. A group of us were gathering in Seattle for the Seahawks vs. Steelers game when my life changed forever. As I was trying to speak to my friends…I  became unable to talk…and I passed out.

When I woke up in a hospital bed with a bad headache I didn’t know why I had passed out…but I vaguely remembered something with my speech…and not being able to talk.

I was introduced to my new reality when a young doctor escorted me down the hall as she told me that I just had seizure. We came to a room full of images. The images were from an MRI of the brain…my brain. As an added bonus…the images revealed that I had something inside my head that didn’t belong there…a tumor.

The feelings associated with this announcement are difficult to explain…shock and disbelief are a good place to start. Eventually these emotions were followed by denial…resignation…and eventually…resolve.

I was actually fortunate that I had the seizure to alert me of the tumor’s existence- I may be alive because of it! There is a good chance that without that moment in time, I may have lived with an unknown tumor until it was too late.

Every time that I reflect back to this part of my life, I pass by many pit-stops along the way. I can’t simply jump to the beginning of my journey without visiting some of the memories associated with this moment in time.

I remember the uncertain path that I was to follow to get where I am today. It was hard to imagine that I would still be here today…16 years later. But I did imagine…and I decided that that my best course of action was to manifest success.

I went through three different surgeries…direct placement chemo therapy…and finally radiation. It was time to begin my post treatment life…to see a future. I celebrated my last day of radiation, June 3rd, 2004, by going backcountry skiing. Not only was it great fun…it represented living my life as if nothing had changed.

As I moved forward I would see periodic news stories about a high profile person like politicians, sport stars, and rock stars being diagnosed with this insidious disease. I became closer to them because of this connection…and followed their stories. It’s not that I liked them more than I had before. It’s simply that we now had an unwanted kinship.

I still have a highly personal reaction when I hear the news of a celebrity or someone in our community is diagnosed. Treatment is not highly successful and every time someone falls…it has an effect on me. There are certainly success stories…and this also has an effect on me.

When I first asked myself ‘is this survivor’s guilt’? I came to the realization that it was survivor’s relief…and even survivor’s disbelief. I learned to move past any feelings of guilt. They did not die in order for me to keep living… I am simply a fortunate survivor.

So I take this day to think about all of those who have been diagnosed with brain tumors since that day…and I share my story for those who may follow me in this journey. When we acknowledge the survivor’s…we give reason for hope.

It may seem odd to celebrate the anniversary of this moment in time. But this was the beginning of my new reality…and my path forward. It is my intention to celebrate this path forward for years to come.

Such a wonderful weekend! SOE 2018 Retreat

‘The Crew’

Yowza….another Healing Adventure Retreat in the books. Another Healing…Adventure…Retreat…check, check, and check. Every year has a spirit and meaning that is different than any other. Thanks to the participants! Along with the presenters: Teri, Tess, Mikel, Lynne, Dave, and Heath. And of course: Kat, Gay, Julie and Dan. So great!

A quick break on the way to the falls.

Great Job…great view

2018 Healing Adventure Retreat Coming Soon! May 18-20

Hey Folks-

It’s time for the 2018  Healing Adventure Retreat May 18-20.

Survivor’s Outdoor Experience (SOE) presents the SEVENTH “Healing Adventure” at the Olympic NatureBridge Campus May 18-20. We would like you to be our guest for this retreat created as a Family & Friends program! Participants will include individuals that have been diagnosed with cancer and a companion if they choose to be accompanied.

This program will bring a small group of participants together in a remarkable setting to enjoy a weekend that will be one to remember. The retreat features fascinating presentations, indoor and outdoor activities, good food and most of all, good times and memories.

Activities include:

 

  • Who is a Survivor  by Jack Ganster
  • Healing in Harmony with Teri Applegate
  • From Surviving to Thriving  by Dr. Heath Foxlee
  • Now What? Navigating Forward by Dr. Lynne Taylor
  • Healthy cooking with local foods  by Chef Dave Long
  • The Companion’s Story with Tess Taft
  • Relating to Nature
  • Exercise is Good Medicine
  • Hiking and Canoeing with NatureBridge staff.

 

The Healing Adventure will be held at the beautiful  Olympic NatureBridge campus located on Lake Crescent in the Olympic National Park. The retreat is designed to be a healing experience for all.

Survivor’s Outdoor Experience is a non-profit educational and recreational organization. This program was developed to provide cancer survivors of all ages an opportunity to learn about the benefits of living a healthy and active lifestyle.

The program provides a curriculum of informative presentations balanced with recreational activities. The goal is to assist participants in gaining strength, hope, and a sense of the future.

For more information contact Jack Ganster at 360-477-1619 or jhgisjack@yahoo.com

*limited space available

Mount Olympus

The Crown Jewel of the Olympics

The grandeur of the mountains is evident throughout the entire 923,000 acres of Olympic National Park. The most spectacular example of all is Mount Olympus and the Hoh River Valley.

The moment I saw some old photos of this remote, glacier-covered peak, I knew that I wanted to climb it. I was a back country skier living in Vermont at the time, and the images of year- round snow and sharp rugged peaks drew me in like a moth to a flame.

Blue Glacier by Keith Lazelle

Blue Glacier, Olympic National Park

…Continue Reading Mount Olympus

DO SOMETHING!

I sometimes find myself tangled-up in my to do list. I can’t seem to get out of my own way. Even now…13 years after finishing radiation following brain surgery(s)…I get stuck in neutral.  Yes…this last sentence holds clues to some percentage of my problem. It is difficult to go through this sort of treatment regiment without some sort of brain damage.

All cancer treatments…all drugs…have side effects. Radiation and Chemotherapy are known to effect a brains’ ability to function at the highest of levels. We were not all dealt the same hand at the beginning of our life…and we are not playing with the same cards once we’ve been diagnosed. We do what we can. And with some effort…to the best of our abilities.

The transition from being newly diagnosed…then treated…then waiting to see a response…takes it’s toll. In these past 13 years I had plenty of ups and downs. Getting bogged down is a side effect of my life as a brain cancer survivor. So I take baby steps when necessary.

I have come up with a mantra of sorts. It’s kind of like mindful breathing. With my breathing…I can take a moment to slow down and breathe purposefully…feeling my body doing the simple task that we constantly take for granted. And why not? We’ve been doing it all our life…even before we knew we were alive.

But with consciousness comes added responsibility. As young adults we learn…it’s time to justify our existence…to make our own mark on the world. As cancer survivors…we don’t need to build anything for the world to come see…or win the Nobel Prize. We just need to do…what we need to do…to move forward.

DO SOMETHING!

DO SOMETHING MORE THAN NOTHING

DO SOMETHING TO GET MOVING

DO SOMETHING TO MOVE FORWARD

DO SOMETHING THAT ACHIEVES A TASK

DO SOMETHING PHYSICAL

DO SOMETHING CREATIVE

DO SOMETHING THAT YOU LIKE

DO SOMETHING THAT MOTIVATES YOU

DO SOMETHING THAT HELPS YOU

 DO SOMETHING THAT HELPS OTHERS

DO SOMETHING THAT INSPIRES YOU

DO SOMETHING THAT INSPIRES OTHERS

DO SOMETHING THAT MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD

Don’t expect to manage all of these at once…but there are many possible combinations. Give it a try. Do something!

 

Skiing to celebrate my anniversary

When I moved to Port Angeles, Washington in 1991 I carried the memories of witnessing game two of the Stanley Cup Finals. This was the game that Mario Lemieux made the iconic goal against the Minnesota North Stars that changed the series and lifted Mario into legendary status with his performance. What we saw as impossible to achieve…he brought to reality via pure will and creativity.

In 1993 he was living his life as the hero and savior of Penguins Hockey after leading his team to back-to-back Stanley Cups Titles. He was having another strong year, crushing the scoring competition with his incredible play.

Then…he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Disease…Cancer. Although it is a less problematic type of cancer…with a five-year survival rate today of 81 percent…it is still cancer. With treatments that included radiation.

On March 2nd, 1993, Mario finished radiation and booked a charter flight in order to play that night in Philadelphia. He scored a goal and assisted on another. Amazing…

In November of 2003 I had a seizure to alert me to the fact that I had something inside my head that didn’t belong there, a brain tumor. With my confidence in the medical facilities in Pittsburgh and the support of my family, I chose to have surgery there.

After hearing ‘it’s worse than we thought’ in regard to the level of concern the tumor presented, I opted for an advised second surgery. Everything went well and I am thankful for the level of care that I received.

I received my radiation treatments when I returned home to Washington. As my treatments were wrapping up, I remembered Mario’s story and thought about the possibility of using it for motivation.

It was in that tradition that I chose to do… what I wish I did as well as Mario played hockey…ski. We typically have snow in June, and I thought ‘why not?’.  With this inspiration I skied the afternoon of my last day of radiation with several friends…and had a blast.  On June 3rd I was able to ski on the 13th anniversary…a yearly tradition. (conditions permitting)

At the bottom of the run...Klahanie Ridge. It was like skiing inside a ping-pong ball...but hey...it was skiing.

At the bottom of the run…Klahanie Ridge. It was like skiing inside a ping-pong ball…but hey…it was skiing.

Mario went on to do all he could to keep the Penguins in Pittsburgh as part owner and now they have the most successful team in the league. (Five Cups!) He also created the Mario Lemieux Foundation. He is now 22 years cancer free and devotes much of his time at the Foundation raising funds for to help reach the ultimate goal: a cure for cancer.

His approach to hand that he was dealt again motivated me. I have been a lifetime fan of using the natural world as my playground and sanctuary. I had years of experience in outdoor recreation and leading others to expand their appreciation of our natural world.

With this history I created Survivor’s Outdoor Experience. Our programming is directed towards the ultimate goal of giving participants strength, hope and a sense of the future.

It is a personal journey to fight this disease known as cancer and we all have our path. Mario used winning the scoring title as his motivation (he did win it) and I used it to get back to normal as mine. With the inspiration of his story.

Thanks & Congrats, Mario.

This year I added a bonus day and went to Mt. Angeles on 6/4/17

Mount Angeles

Mount Angeles

 

 

2017 Retreat Memories

Our 'Crew" Enjoying the great weather as we head out for Marymere Falls

Our ‘Crew” Enjoying the great weather as we head out for Marymere Falls

Great weather…old friends…new friends…and good times. Always a worthy weekend when we hold a Healing Adventure Retreat. This year was no exception.

Many thanks to all that came as participants…and to all of our ‘staff’….such a good vibe to hang out with all of you!

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We didn’t go anywhere…but we still traveled over some rough terrain…and managed to have a good time!

Here are some photos that captured a few moments of our weekend journey.

These images may not win any quality awards…but that’s mostly because of the SUNNY weather that we had during our SURVIVOR’S OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE.

Thanks to all that participated in bringing this together!

 

Getting ready to journey on Lake Crescent

Getting ready to journey on Lake Crescent

 

Coming back in to 'Port"

Coming back in to ‘Port”

2017 Healing Adventure Retreat Coming Soon! May 19-21

Hey Folks-

It’s time for the 2017  Healing Adventure Retreat May 19-21.

Survivor’s Outdoor Experience (SOE) presents the SIXTH “Healing Adventure” at the Olympic NatureBridge Campus May 19-21. We would like you to be our guest for this retreat created as a Family & Friends program! Participants will include individuals that have been diagnosed with cancer and a companion if they choose to be accompanied.

This program will bring a small group of participants together in a remarkable setting to enjoy a weekend that will be one to remember. The retreat features fascinating presentations, indoor and outdoor activities, good food and most of all, good times and memories.

Activities include:

  • Who is a Survivor  by Jack Ganster
  • Relating to Nature by John Gussman
  • Poetry in the Wild with Tim McNulty
  • From Surviving to Thriving  by Dr. Heath Foxlee
  • Now What? Navigating Forward by Dr. Stephen Parker
  • Healthy cooking with Julie Jacobson
  • The Companion’s Story with Kornelia Grabinska
  • Exercise is Good Medicine
  • Hiking and Canoeing with NatureBridge staff.

360-477-1619 or jhgisjack@yahoo.com                  *limited space available

Healing Adventure Retreat 2016

We had a great time…with new friends and old friends! Between learning, sharing, laughing, and crying…we had wonderful time.

So great being out on the water. Lake Crescent

So great being out on the water… Lake Crescent

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Marymere Falls as our hiking destination during our weekend journey

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Most of our crew as we enjoy the morning sun

 

 

 

THANKS to everyone who joined us!

 

 

 

 

 

And THANKS to John, Linda, Lynne, Kia, Heath for your presentations and the staff at NatureBridge!

 

 

A Great Way to celebrate our FIFTH Healing Adventure Retreat!

 

2016 Healing Adventure Retreat Coming Soon: May 20-22

   

Survivor’s Outdoor Experience (SOE) presents the FIFTH “Healing Adventure” at the Olympic NatureBridge Campus May 20-22. We would like you to be our guest for this retreat created as a Family & Friends program! Participants will include individuals that have been diagnosed with cancer and a companion of their choice.

This program will bring a small group of participants together in a remarkable setting to enjoy a weekend that will be one to remember. The retreat features fascinating presentations, indoor and outdoor activities, good food and most of all, good times and memories.

Activities include:

  • Who is a Survivor  by Jack Ganster
  • Relating to Nature by John Gussman
  • From Surviving to Thriving  by Dr. Heath Foxlee
  • What’s The Altitude of your Attitude? by Linda Klinefelter
  • Healthy cooking with Kia Armstrong of Nash’s Organic Produce
  • Now What? The Path Forward  by Dr. Lynne Taylor
  • Exercise is Good Medicine
  • Hiking and Canoeing with NatureBridge staff

 

Wonderful time at the Wine Gala

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Our crew had a great time at the Olympic Medical Center Foundation Harvest of Hope Wine Gala last Saturday…10/24/15.                                                              Proceeds from this event are dedicated to services, programs, and equipment for local cancer patients.                                                                                           It was a fun evening and I was honored to be this years guest speaker.

A great event for a great cause!

 

Wonderful Healing Adventure Retreat 2015

We had such a wonderful Healing Experience at NatureBridge along beautiful Lake Crescent!

P1020112 (800x600)  Wow…our group had such a great time…check out the smiles!

Our participants were treated to amazing presentations during a  weekend of sunshine and sharing.

Special thanks to our presenters: Lynne Taylor, Heath Foxlee, Tim McNulty, Pat Mortati, Kia Armstrong, and Katheryn Cooper for bringing us stimulating presentations. Thanks also to the NatureBridge staff for being so willing to accommodate us with our needs and lead us on our outings.

 

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Here are a few comments from our participants:

Thank you so much… I appreciate you doing this work. It was so rejuvenating for me, it felt like a re-boot to my life. I LOVED spending the time out in nature… and getting to know and spend time with several wonderful new people!  Harmony P.

It was a wonderful weekend, a truly wonderful weekend.  What a gift you have given us, Jack.  Thank you.  I’ll never forget that canoe ride on Sunday morning.  It was magic.  And I can’t wait for next year. Beth H.

Incredible…would be my word for the weekend. Thanks for an amazing experience! Teresa T.

I enjoyed the time there with you and the other folks, and the program and activities were excellent! Jennie C.

Thanks everyone…for a truly memorable time!

 

 

 

 

Healing Adventure Retreat 2015

 

Activities include:

  • Who is a Survivor  by Jack Ganster
  • Relating to Nature…A Journal of our Experience by Tim McNulty
  • From Surviving to Thriving  by Dr. Heath Foxlee
  • Healthy cooking with Kia Armstrong of Nash’s Organic Produce
  • Mindful Breathing & Relaxation with Pat Mortati
  • Exercise is Good Medicine with Kathryn Cooper
  • Live music with Local Favorites Barry & Mick

For more information about this free program go to survivorsoutdoorexperience.org, or contact Jack Ganster at 360-477-1619 or jhgisjack@yahoo.com

 

Our 2014 Healing Adventure Retreat

The SOE 'symbolic tree'. The fire represents cancer and the still living tree is like the person still standing despite the fire.

The SOE ‘symbolic tree’. The fire represents cancer and the still living tree is like the person still standing despite the fire.

Our mini 'paddle journey on Lake Crescent

Our mini ‘paddle journey’ on Lake Crescent

We had a grand time at the Survivor’s Outdoor Experience Healing Adventure Retreat! Just take a look at these photos…and you will get the idea. What a pleasure to host a great group of survivors with the help of some fantastic presenters: Heath Foxlee, Linda Klinefelter, Bill Berger, Christine Jacobson, Mary Robson and Kia Armstrong. We also want to thank Twisted Roots for their fantastic music and the staff at NatureBridge, including KC Nattinger. They did a great job of making us feel welcome.

Our Hike to Marymere Falls

Our Hike to Marymere Falls

The 'Gang" Sunday morning before our hike

The ‘Gang” Sunday morning before our hike

 

 

 

 

 

 

Healthy Cooking with Kia from Nash's Organic Produce — with Kia Armstrong.

Healthy Cooking with Kia from Nash’s Organic Produce — with Kia Armstrong.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bonus…sunny Lake Crescent!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Such a great time!

 

 

 

“SOE gave us a memorable,  helpful,  and enjoyable retreat.  The combination of perfect Lake Crescent scenery,
thought-provoking speakers,  and outdoor rambles on trails and the lake added up to much more than the individual parts.
All in all,  a grand experience.”

“Thanks for all the hard work putting things together.  It always takes some time to process such an experience, but I know I will take away some valuable ideas and experiences… and my perspective will surely be altered.”

“We were talking earlier today and we both agree that there was nothing negative about the time we were there. It was all good and positive, and we thank you and your terrific group of people who helped you pull it off.”

“Wow…what a treat! Getting together to share this weekend will remain as a highlight of my cancer ‘journey’.”

 

 

My 10 Year Journey

A Survivor’s Journey

As a person who has spent the last ten years willing to share my experience about life after diagnosis, it’s still difficult to simply say “I am a cancer survivor.”  So much goes into this statement.

It’s been an incredible journey and I have seen and experienced so much during this period in my life-a period that almost seemed out of reach.

At the time, I was strong and healthy, Lance Armstrong was still a hero, and the Livestrong Foundation was just gaining traction. Since then, I’ve attended a conference at their headquarters in Austin, Texas, started my own program (Survivor’s Outdoor Experience) and have witnessed Mr. Armstrong’s meteoric fall from grace.

As much as I deplore this man’s constant flippant denials and bully-style behavior, I can totally relate with him about how rewarding it is to help others through simply surviving against the odds-the most basic form of leading by example.

This is why share my story. It goes beyond this simple idea of outlasting the disease- I felt like I would, but I still feel like it’s a temporary victory. Even though it’s been ten years and multiple MRI exams later and all the evidence suggests that I should declare victory. …Continue Reading My 10 Year Journey

Amazing Healing Adventure Retreat

Wow! What a wonderful Healing Adventure Retreat! Our spring 2013 retreat exceeded expectations…great group of participants, engaging presentations, super setting, and beautiful weather to top it off!

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Such a wonderful experience with an amazing group!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comments from participants:

 

 

 Group Paddle on Lake Crescent

Group Paddle on Lake Crescent

 

“I hope you feel really good about the outcome of this past weekend–personally, it was a really beneficial& rewarding experience! The exchange of information and camaraderie was valuable, encouraging and fun…and to score such glorious weather was a cherry on top!”

That just about sums it up for me. I had a wonderful time and Monday I felt so relaxed I had one of the best days I’ve had in months.Thanks again for your wonderful organization and the special retreat.”

“This was just great. It was such a gift for all involved. I came away renewed, rejuvenated and very inspired!”
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"Courage is
grace under pressure"
"I am not what happened to me,
I am what I choose to become"
"The meaning of life
is a life with meaning"
"Cancer may leave your body, but it never leaves your life"
"The healing powers of participating in outdoor activities while exploring the natural world are powerful and profound.

A sense of calm and a feeling of contentment are reached when surrounded by nature."
"Accept how 'not normal' you are, and do your best to become as 'normal' as you can given the circumstances."