Roar of Lions

Introduction:

The impact of the doctor's message was like the roar of lions. I was in shock, devastated, and scared. Breast cancer had never crossed my mind. My reaction to the news was the same reaction that you would have to the roar of lions in a jungle. You try to put the sound out of your mind, but you can't help but listen. The lions become your focus. The same was true for me with my cancer, I didn't want to be negative about it or focus on it, yet it became the focal point of my life over the next few years.

Initially, I had the same thoughts as many other women with cancer, e.g., I thought about dying or losing my hair, being away from work, the side-effects of treatment, and the reaction of family and friends. How was I going to get through all of this? Over time, I develop survival techniques to help me through this difficult period. It is these techniques that I wish to share with you.

One of the biggest changes that I made in my life was to develop a stronger spiritual outlook and in particular, to do more meditating. Practicing the various concentration and breathing techniques, was a way for me to remain relaxed and connect with my creator. It was also a way for me to bring a positive focus to my life that enabled me to have hope for the future. I was no longer fearful of what was ahead of me. I was on a path toward inner peace and healing. But, I also used other techniques such as eating well and exercising more. I tried to take a more holistic approach to my life and made changes that would ultimately improve my daily well being and long-term health. Exercise included everything from long walks to swimming and especially Yoga , and after each session, I felt better and stronger. I could feel my body, spirit, and mind working together to make me well fighting the cancer.

Having breast cancer has been a journey for me. After nine years of health I know now, more than ever before, that I can meet any challenge that comes my way. I'm strong mentally, spiritually, and physically. I continue with all the good habits that I formed during my illness and I continue to benefit from them.

The purpose of this book is to share with you the techniques that I have learned on my journey, with the hope that they can also help you, in such a way that the "roar of lions" will disappear in your life. And, I wish you as much success with your journey as I have had on mine.