The research of epigenetics suggests that our inherited genes do not necessarily reflect our destiny. Biology alone does not necessarily determine our destiny. We can have an influence over our genetic make-up. We now understand how each of us can be dramatically affected by our environment, diet, stress, and even our thoughts and emotions. The good news is that we all have the ability to control many of these factors – starting today.

That’s a quote from Winston Churchill, and he’s right. Through my journey, I learned there is one very powerful antidote to the fear that grips you when you hear the words, “you have cancer” — and that is knowledge. The sad fact is that, according to the National Cancer Institute, more than 4,700 new cancer diagnoses are handed down each day. That’s well over one and half million Americans who are told they have cancer each year. We need to either be prepared… or ready to fight if the time comes that we’re one of the unfortunate ones to hear those dreaded words. The treatments I got happened to be the right treatments at the right time. Fortunately, there is a lot more information available these 30+ years later. That’s why I started the Templeton Wellness Foundation.

Synthetic mattresses often contain petroleum-based chemicals, toxic foams, and fire-retardant chemicals. These chemicals can off-gas even when the mattress is ten years old and there’s no chemical smell! Beware of memory foam mattresses and toppers, too. Unless the memory foam mattress is manufactured with organic latex, it is made up of chemicals and man-made substances. For years, I slept on an organic cotton futon. These are great because they can be placed directly on the floor, a bed frame, or on top of another mattress – whatever works best for you.

Most sportswear is synthetic and contains hazardous chemicals such as phthalates, dimethylformamide (DMF), and perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs). Moisture wicking clothing is supposed to be helpful, but they’re synthetic, too. If you have cancer, I suggest avoiding it. Wear natural fabrics instead such as cotton, linen, or wool.

Neglect your teeth and gums, and it’s not only your mouth that will suffer. According to the National Institutes of Health, “There are many studies indicating that cancer patients are manifested with poor oral health.” If you have cancer, now is the time to take note of any dental issues you may have.

In an article in the Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients, Lawrence Wilson, MD, wrote, “If I were to single out one method to combat cancer, it is the sauna. It assists removal of chemical toxins and heavy metals, increases oxygenation, enhances the immune system, and reduces the radiation burden in the body.” Infrared sauna treatments are harmful only to malignant cells that just can’t take the heat! Normal, healthy cells are immune to infrared radiation.

Detoxing is serious business when you’re dealing with cancer. The chronically ill person’s body is like a big city with garbage collectors on strike. You have to open the detox drains and get the poisons out–the sooner the better. If you’re eating a lot of vegetables and fiber and drinking a lot of pure water, you should be able to eliminate after each meal–or at least twice a day. If not, it’s a sign that you may need a little help. If you’re skittish about enemas, consider colonics, also known as colonic irrigation or colon hydrotherapy. It should be done by a qualified practitioner.

Misery loves company, but that’s no company to keep while you’re in the middle of the battle of your life. It’s important to surround yourself with positive, like-minded people. It sure made a difference in my life. If you can’t find a friend to confide in, consider finding a support group. Make peace with your past for the sake of your health.

We humans are complex beings. We can treat our body as a machine, but if we ignore the emotional and spiritual components of our lives, we may be missing key elements of healing. It’s important to address the body as a whole.

Mistakes happen. They can be made in labs. Files can be accidentally switched. MRIs can be misinterpreted. Whatever the reason, facts don’t lie. Medical errors are now listed as the third leading cause of deaths in America after heart disease and cancer. And although it may seem unfathomable, patients may even be purposely misdiagnosed. It is heartbreaking to read about instances in which unsuspecting patients received inappropriate, even unnecessary, chemotherapy and radiation treatments and even unnecessary surgery.

Before you go see another doctor for a second opinion, always be sure to have a copy of your medical records and tests to provide for the new physician, just in case they were not forwarded by your first doctor’s staff. Unfortunately, this omission is a common occurrence and only winds up having you reschedule your appointment to a later date—and the last thing you need is to waste valuable time waiting for another appointment. A 3-ring binder with your medical history is a great thing to carry along with you… just in case. While this may sound like a lot of unnecessary work, I can assure you, it is worth the effort.

When people are first told they have cancer, they feel as though their world has come to an end – believe me, I’ve been there! And while your doctor may pause briefly while you catch your breath, and then continue to tell you more about what type of cancer you have and what the next steps will be in treating it, for most, it’s not an easy speech to follow—let alone comprehend and ask the appropriate questions.