I was diagnosed with a brain tumor on March 18, 1998, and it changed my life. My experience thinking about a brain tumor forced me to educate myself in my new world and deal with my emotions.
Fast forward—more than two decades—I’ve become well versed about the journey of optimal health and healing. The dance took some time, during which I discovered a tremendous amount. As I’ve conveyed aspects in the past such as lessons learned and why I’m still here, I want to share more information that might help you along your path.
Know the Real Facts
The National Cancer Institute reports that approximately 39.5% of people in the US will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetimes. It’s a smart idea not to feel worried and instead be wise. With those stats, mindset is paramount—adopt a proactive position: I have melted any worry and now feel wise.
Finding the Answer to Cancer
Overall, only 5% to 10% of all cancers are inherited. The remaining 90% to 95% has been linked to lifestyle factors and the environment. The way to reduce 39.5% of the US population which will be diagnosed with cancer is to promote and undertake lifestyle changes and address environmental issues.
Push to Promote Positive Changes
Understanding and embracing lifestyle and environmental factors can be tricky. Fortunately, details play a role in pushing forward with positive movement. Obesity is a growing problem. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention NCHS Data Brief shows that 1999-2000 through 2017-2018, the prevalence of obesity increased from 30.5% to 42.4%. Obesity-related conditions include heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Those are some of the leading causes of preventable, premature death.
Regardless of statistics and diseases, struggles can be shifted for change. Embracing a motivated commitment happens with a healthy diet, exercise, mind-body connection, improved mindset, self-love and love externally, and other approaches. As a mantra and visualization: embrace an open mind for positive change.
Focus on Cancer Prevention
Many people are aware that regular screening tests can timely inform—think early warning system—but not everyone follows through on those tests or embraces their purpose. Beyond screenings, there is not enough attention for other cancer prevention strategies. It is beneficial to understand trusted sources and stay current with their recommendations. As with some details, I have written about integrative cancer care to the whole person, such as information about cancer prevention.
We eagerly await the U.S. government such as the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Cancer Institute, cancer non-profits, and the White House focusing more on cancer prevention. On your to-do list: advocate for yourself and others in the area of prevention efforts.
Uniting the Parts to Embrace the Whole
People with cancer benefit from integrative cancer care for the whole person. Major aspects include the physical body, mind-body connection, spiritual vitality, social support, and a cleaner environment that improves quality of life, cancer survival, and cancer prevention. Recognizing the ‘whole’ in the process of healing—the absolute incorporation and full embodiment of the whole person—is key to a successful journey. In summary: becoming a full interest of your own ‘whole’ self will allow you to alter your healing dynamics.
Family Mystery Clarified
During my cancer journey, I never thought about genetics. Years after I was diagnosed with a brain tumor, my grandmother was diagnosed in her early 90s with pancreatic cancer; it swiftly took her life. At the time, she and I were the only ones getting cancer.
Eventually, when I was 45-years old and experienced some gut problems, I had a colonoscopy for the first time. Because of many small and large polyps, I had genetic testing which showed I have MUTYH mutation. I learned I had to track getting more frequent colonoscopies and proactively address other cancer types. While only 5% to 10% of all cancer cases are inherited, giving more attention to genetics is important for patients, providers, and researchers. What can you do? Make it your business to understand your family history, and if appropriate, consider getting genetic testing.
Thriving on Life, Living & Love
I’m fortunate to be alive as a 23-year brain tumor survivor. That is not always the case. I know other cancer patients who have passed. As I’ve captured many strategies to survive and thrive, some parts of the puzzle involve embracing life, living, and love for optimal health and healing. To love yourself, being loved by others, and have meaning will invigorate your innate healing capacity.
I’m Here To Help
For many, one of the hardest things about being diagnosed with cancer is not knowing what will happen next. Begin your proactive prevention or take an active role in your healing journey by exploring here to go deeper in yourself for transformation and evolution. It is truly like turning on a light in a dark room.
If you would like to engage in essential ways to improve your quality of life and affect your survivorship, contact me and learn more about my coaching here.
