How Cancer Changed My Life and My Purpose

It’s been three years since my cancer diagnosis, but being a survivor has transformed every aspect of my life. Each day, I wake up feeling gratitude for simply being alive, embracing a journey that’s renewed my sense of purpose in ways I never anticipated.

The Diagnosis: A Life-Altering Phone Call

My journey began with a phone call from my doctor, who calmly informed me that I had cancer. The news left me numb, in shock, and struggling to process the diagnosis. My husband sensed something was wrong and held me tightly, giving me the strength to face what lay ahead.

With support from friends, my physician, and family, I made the decision to seek treatment at Dana-Farber in Boston. There, I met my surgeon—a smart, strong, and compassionate professional who was also pregnant at the time. She represented resilience and hope, operating to save my life as she carried life herself.

Healing in a Supportive, Inspiring Environment

At Dana-Farber, I was surrounded by an environment that felt comforting and uplifting. The hospital’s open design, filled with natural light and beautiful artwork, was designed to support healing. This environment was so impactful that, after my recovery, I chose to donate two of my own art pieces to Dana-Farber, hoping to bring beauty and encouragement to other patients.

Lessons Learned as a Cancer Survivor

Cancer has shaped my approach to life and my legacy. As a clinical psychologist, yoga instructor, and trauma-informed yoga teacher, I’m dedicated to helping others find holistic healing. I’ve learned that self-care, creativity, and connection are not just therapeutic—they’re transformative.

This diagnosis also gave me a renewed perspective on my passions. I embrace hiking, nature photography, and my work as an abstract multimedia artist with more purpose than ever before. I also became CEO of Luminosity Publishing and have since written nine self-help books, three of which are international bestsellers.

Helping Couples Find Connection and Fulfillment

Together with my husband, Dr. John, I’m part of a mission to help couples enhance their relationships and find joy. In six weeks, we’ll host a Relationship Revival Retreat in Costa Rica, where we’ll work with couples on communication, creative problem-solving, and relationship fulfillment. This retreat reflects our belief that true connection and vitality are key to a fulfilling life.

The Healing Power of Art and Creative Flow

For me, art is a sanctuary. The creative process nurtures my soul, allowing me to enter a state of flow where I lose track of time and feel completely engaged. I approach every blank canvas without a plan, focusing on the journey rather than the destination.

As James Taylor once sang, “The secret to life is enjoying the passage of time.” My art allows me to live this truth, returning to a place of mindfulness and peace. Through art, I’ve learned that life’s beauty lies not in others’ opinions but in our own joy and fulfillment.

A Life of Purpose, Creativity, and Legacy

Reflecting on my cancer journey, I feel that I’m in the best chapter of my life. Each painting, book, and project fills me with purpose. I aim to inspire others to embrace wellness, mindfulness, peace, joy, passion, and radical freedom through their own creative journeys. Art has the power to transform us and root us in the present moment—a gift I’m grateful to share with others.

Final Thoughts on Healing and Creativity

Cancer has taught me to live each day with gratitude and intention. Through my art, my writing, and my work with others, I hope to encourage people to explore wellness, creativity, and connection. This journey isn’t just about survival—it’s about thriving, finding joy, and embracing life’s beauty.