Amanda's journey with breast cancer

On May 17th 2016, I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. Cancer is a scary word, but I am feeling optimistic. On August 23rd, I had surgery to have the tumour removed from my left breast. I am healing rapidly, and feeling good! I am choosing to include the support of a naturopath who specializes in oncology, and a qualified herbalist to compliment the allopathic treatments. I am also getting massages, accupuncture, and going to a wonderful counsellor to help with stress management and all the emotions that come with a diagnosis like this. I believe that strenghthening my immune system and getting my body, mind and spirit strong and healthy is essential to providing the best possible outcome. I want to do all I possibly can to be around for many more years to be there for my 7 year old daughter, the light of my life, to grow old, and watch her grow up.

These complimentary treatments are not covered by health care, and the cost of the medicines and consultations is really starting to add up, and I will be needing to follow this protocal for a while. I don't want to feel held back from doing certain therapies because of lack of finances. Also there are ferry and gas expenses, as well as time I will be unable to work due to whichever treatments I decide to do. At this point, it is unknown how much time that will be. There are some pretty big decisions to make.

My trust and faith in a higher power, and the support I've already been given is keeping me strong. I am choosing to see this as a wake up call to change and over haul every aspect of my life for the better, and to practice deep gratitude.