October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Taking steps for Breast Cancer Holistic Health and Early Detection play a key role all year long.
My good friend Sarah Sanders shares her story of overcoming breast cancer. Sarah has been cancer-free for 5 years. Here, Sarah provides specific helpful tips on aligning with the right doctor, taking on the responsibility to understand holistic healing, and making lifestyle changes.
Sarah was diagnosed with a form of Breast Cancer called ER+ invasive ductal carcinoma. For Sarah, like many women impacted by cancer, early detection was key. “My biggest message to women is the importance of early detection,” says Sarah. “If someone has a family history of breast cancer, monitoring more closely than the annual mammogram is essential.”
Early Detection
-
- Get a Breast MRI every year
*Recognize there is modern technology available
*A “must-do” if a genetic pre-disposition to breast cancer exists
- Do not assume the insurance company will not pay for a breast MRI
- Choose a doctor that will fight for your cause
- Do not assume that doctors communicate effectively and accurately with your other doctors
- Be proactive as your own health advocate
“A person will most likely have several different doctors,” shares Sarah. “Often, doctors do not communicate proactively. It is our duty to take responsibility for our holistic health.”
Diagnosis
- Research constantly
- Read, ask questions
- Talk to other patients who have recovered
- Make informed decisions
Diet
- Cut out foods that are known to promote cancer
- Cancer promoting foods to avoid include:
- Sugar
- Red meats
- White “starchy” carbs
- Choose foods that promote strong immune health
- Studies show when consumed in small doses, tree nuts (walnuts, almonds) can have a positive effect on patients prone to breast cancer
- For additional cancer fighting foods, read FOODS THAT FIGHT BREAST CANCER Raw nuts, particularly tree nuts, consumed daily
Healing
- “Exercise is super important,” says Sarah. “Quick healing includes getting outdoors, walking, and drinking a ton of water!”
- Walk each day or do some other form of exercise that brings joy
- Drink water, lots of it
Mental Well Being
- Studies show a lack of Vitamin D is linked to breast cancer and impacts mental health
- Get outdoors
- Get Vitamin D levels tested
- Take Vitamin D supplements when necessary
- Seek a professional counselor
“My counselor was a breast cancer survivor,” says Sarah. “Someone relatable to talk to is crucial to mental health and helps keep your perspective healthy.”
Why Me?
Sarah says, “I didn’t ask ‘why me?’ I adopted the perspective of ‘I’m supposed to share and encourage others with my story, my experiences.'”
- Women coming together helping other women is crucial to our success
City of Hope featured Sarah for her courage, positivity, and proactive approach to her health. Sarah Sanders City of Hope
Sarah’s note to younger women, “This disease is hitting women younger and younger. Breast cancer is not a “50 year old’s” disease. Practice self exams, get mammograms early, push for the MRI if a propensity that breast cancer runs in the family.”
