Hope4Cancer: Day One. The Awakening—Mind, Body, Spirit
During my time at Hope4Cancer, I have experienced a multitude of blessings that have strengthened the bond between myself and the incredible individuals I have met along this journey. From the very first day, I was awakened to a new sense of purpose and hope.
The emotional alliance and inclusivity of the group immediately struck me. We were all united by our shared desire for healing and restoration, creating an environment in which we could openly express our fears, hopes, and dreams. It was truly empowering to be surrounded by individuals who understood the challenges we faced and offered unwavering support.
In the next series of posts, I will be reflecting on 15 of my 22 days at Hope4Cancer. I will share my experiences and insights that enriched my spirit, in hope that you might also be enlightened by the love and empowered by the resilience shown by this group of champions.
“Blessed to be in a healing environment and surrounded by love. Lord my God, I cried for help, and you healed me.”
—Psalm 30:2
DAY ONE
I woke up in the hotel and prayed for peace. I opened my eyes. I realized I was starting a journey of a lifetime, not a moment. I prayed again, this time for hope. I felt my spirit had now woken, too, and I asked God to use me with this disease to be a messenger for His will.
Good morning! When I walked into the clinic for the first time, I was greeted by a wonderful, overwhelming group hug—physical, emotional, and spiritual. The other guests were glad I was there, and I was grateful for them. The fellowship felt like the affirmation: “Yes, I will be healed.”
I took my first deep breath in five months.
We began our journey together in the Worship room; each of us in awe and reverence of a higher power. The group spirit was determined and vibrant. Alive! And I felt like I was coming home.
Arturo, the Managing Director of the facility and the praise leader, led us in prayer and song. The music was in Spanish but there was no language barrier, rather, a distinct oneness. Standing in a circle of life, we held hands and gave praise and thanks for the healing that had already occurred, and we thanked God for each upcoming day and for the complete healing each would bring.
That first afternoon I became acquainted with my doctor. Her reassuring manner put me at ease, as we launched into several baseline tests: a full-body CT scan to reveal other possible cancer manifestations; Thermography (Thermal Mammography); hair analysis; plus a battery of blood tests—some that, as a Western medical nurse, I had not heard of before.
This first-day awakening, the emotional alliance and inclusivity of the group, our shared reverence and joy in something greater than ourselves, and the harmonious partnership with my doctor were merely the first of many blessings that bonded strong friendships and connections I experienced during the intense and personalized care I received for the next three weeks.