Today’s feature story is from Talaya Dendy. Read on to know more of her story.

1. How did you learn that you have cancer? How did you come to terms with your diagnosis?

I learned that I had cancer when I discovered a lump on the left side of my neck. A year later, yes a YEAR! I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma after seeing a new primary care doctor.

2. What surprised you most about your experience with cancer?

What surprised me most about my experience with cancer was how calm I was despite not knowing how things would turn out. I really focused on the things that I could control. I was also surprised by how little attention is given to emotional support on a more personal level.

3. What did you learn from this experience or what advice do you have that will be helpful for others faced with a similar journey?

I got in tune with my body and I really focused on how the mind and body work together as powerful allies. By focusing on past traumas, the feelings of fear, anger, and victimization ultimately suppress your immune system. You must acknowledge these emotions, work through them, and release them with the help of meditation, prayer, counseling, and journaling.

I want to encourage others faced with a similar journey to become the gatekeepers of their overall health and quality of life. Listen to your body and respect it. You are the expert on yourself. Step into your power!

Utilizing everything I learned through my cancer journey, I became a cancer doula and opened my business, On the Other Side. I developed a unique approach that is focused on the specific needs of those diagnosed with cancer.