THE "GOOD FIGHT"
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge will award me on that Day, and not only to me but to all who have loved his appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7-9
Kelly Peterson discovered that she had breast cancer in July of 2010. After her diagnosis, Kelly and her husband, Jim, spent a considerable amount of time in prayer, and she carefully researched her options. They made the informed decision to decline conventional medicine and utilize holistic cancer therapies. Kelly's children, and her sister, Lori, were completely supportive of this decision. Throughout her cancer journey, Kelly brought all things before God in prayer and acted out of complete obedience to God's will in her life. For the first two years, Kelly felt great and was healthier than she had been for a long time. In the spring of 2012, multiple unforeseen stresses compounded her life, and she began to have a change in her condition. For the next year and a half, Kelly experienced a tremendous amount of pain and suffering as she battled Stage 4 Cancer; however, she chose not to have a "victim" mindset. She remained proactive and strong in her faith. When Kelly's cancer progressed and her pain and weakness intensified, she held fast to her faith and filled her mind with the truth of God's word. Kelly and her family did not express regret or question her decision to decline conventional medicine for holistic therapies. They accepted God's sovereignty in her daily struggles. Kelly "fought the good fight" and was triumphant in her faith when she entered into eternity on October 9, 2013.
THE RENEWAL PATH
"So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
As Kelly faced a cancer diagnosis, she was given three options: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Kelly and her husband spent a considerable amount of time in prayer and doing extensive research, and they did not feel that these options were the right choice for her. After making this decision, Kelly encountered significant scorn and opposition from doctors and other practitioners in the medical community. She believed their opposition was a result of inadequate education and knowledge about alternative approaches to treating cancer due to their limited access to information and research about holistic cancer therapies. Kelly felt that the conventional practitioners could only offer the options that they were aware of. When Kelly researched other options, she found thousands of stories and testimonies of cancer survivors who successfully conquered the disease naturally, and she prayerfully decided what steps she would take to fight her cancer holistically. She was certain that this was the right path for her.
Kelly used various tests to monitor the progression of her cancer. She received a R.G.C.C. Blood Analysis Test through a lab in Greece that provides testing for personalized blood and gnome chemo-sensitivity/chemo-resistance testing. Kelly tracked her breast cancer with thermograpy, a non-radiation and alternative method of detecting and tracking cancer. Thermography is believed to be a safer alternative to mammograms and CT/Pet scans that emit radiation. Kelly also tracked the progression of her cancer by routinely sending urine samples for testing to the Navarro Medical Clinic in Palatine, IL. At the Oasis of Hope Cancer Center in Irvine, California, Kelly received cancer profile testing to determine what treatments were needed for her specific cancer type. Oasis of Hope also offers an ONCOblot Test to detect early forms of cancer by identifying the ENOX2 protein, which only exists on the surface of malignant cancer cells. Kelly chose holistic cancer therapies to support her body and its elimination of cancer rather than destroying both good and bad cells in the body while disrupting the body's natural ability to fight disease. Over a period of three years, Kelly utilized various treatments that have been known to aid in the process of reversing cancer. They included:
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber
- Ozone Therapy
- Vitamin C IV's
- Far Infared Thearpy with a SOQ1 Bed and Chi Machine
- Sauna therapy to raise the cell and body temperature
- Oil Pulling Therapy
- Chiropractic Care
- Massage and Craniosacral Therapy
- Cold Laser Therapy
- Light Beam Generator
- Low Dose, Insulin Potentiated Chemotherapy
- Nutritional Therapy, consulting with Nutritionist, Karen Hurd
- Quality and Trustworthy Supplements
- Juicing Raw Fruits and Vegetables with a Champion Juicer
- Gersen Diet
- Coffee Enemas up to three times daily
- Essiac Tea
- Chaga Tea
- Holistic Dentistry to safely remove amalgams and root canals
- Field Control Therapy
Last summer, Kelly participated in a 65 hour session of Far Infared Therapy with a SOQ1 Bed in Northern Minnesota. She later purchased her own SOQ1 Bed to use at home. She experienced enormous beneficial effects from using this machine; however, she was unable to find the time or physical comfort to utilize the equipment the way she needed for her type of cancer. In addition to using the latest holistic cancer treatments and other healthcare strategies, Kelly relied heavily on the Bible and God's word to guide her. Her faith was a critical part of her daily battle with breast cancer. She pursued physical healing through personal prayer and Biblical meditation/devotions. She attended prayer and healing meetings in the Twin Cities and sought prayer for healing when visiting churches in California. Kelly maintained the mindset that God wanted to use her no matter what she was going through. Although it didn't seem to make sense to her, she believed that God seemed to use her the most at her lowest and weakest moments. When Kelly was receiving cancer treatments at Oasis of Hope, she looked for opportunities to speak life and the hope of Jesus into those around her who were going through similar journeys with cancer.
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. " 2 Corinthians 4:7-11
Kelly was bold in her faith and was very open about sharing the knowledge she learned from her hours of research about cancer and natural treatments. She soon came to realize that people were not open and accepting of her wellness path as they showed little interest or respect for the knowledge and resources she gained through her research about treating cancer holistically. Kelly did not want to come off as pushy, so she backed off and shared only when individuals showed interest in holistic health or asked her questions about her cancer treatments. Over time, Kelly did notice that there was a growing acceptance for holistic health as more people discovered the value of this avenue of health care. She provided resources for those who expressed a desire to learn more. Kelly also prayed with individuals, listened to their stories, and walked with those facing similar struggles.
Kelly trusted in God's strength above her own, and she knew that God would never abandon or leave His children to suffer alone. She described cancer and chronic illness as a mental battle in which one should continually fill their minds with the truth of God's word, the source of ultimate hope, healing, provision, and deliverance. With God's forgiveness, restoration, and healing power, Kelly was more fully equipped to take action and face her situation head on. Kelly was an encouragement for those battling cancer and chronic health problems. She advised others to be strong advocates for their own health by asking questions, seeking preventative care, and addressing the root cause of their health concerns. She knew firsthand the advantage of being proactive with doing the research and trusting God's guidance. Kelly encouraged cancer warriors to find strength in God's promises as they moved past their initial fears and stepped forward in their personal journeys. She saw cancer as a serious condition; however, refused to look at it as a "death sentence." No one, including doctors or cancer specialists, have authority over a person's life. She would have encouraged individuals to take at least a week to do some serious prayer and research before making a hasty decision about getting rid of their cancer. She believed in an individual's right to choose their own health care, whether they chose conventional or alternative approaches. She advised others to put their trust and hope in Jesus Christ first, not conventional medicine or alternative therapies/holistic health, as neither venue of health care carries a guarantee of saving lives.
Kelly believed that the human body works as one unit and everything is interconnected. A critical part of this process includes our thoughts, emotions, and even our sins, which can take a physical toll on our bodies. During Kelly's cancer journey, she reconciled all these things in her life as she allowed God to heal her damaged emotions and lead her to the path of forgiveness. She found that the healing of her heart (emotions/soul) and head (beliefs/thoughts) were just as important to her overall health as addressing her physical wellness. She shared with others that Jesus Christ is the only one who has the power and authority to provide physical and emotional healing and encouraged them to surrender their lives to Christ. Her experiences and struggles built a foundation for the legacy of a woman who loved God above all things and lived her life fully for Him.
THE LEGACY LIVES ON
"And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise." Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Kelly's experience battling breast cancer has transformed her family's perception of life, faith, and healthcare. Her daughter, Cori, continues to wrestle with God regarding the loss of her courageous and bold mother, yet she has accepted God's sovereignty in His decision to take her mom home to heaven. "God and I are working through some tough questions and a broken heart, but I know He is big enough to handle these things and He loves me deeply. He has the power to work in ways I do not understand. When I imagine Mom's eternal body made new and whole again, where she can raise both arms to praise her one true Savior and King, I feel so happy for her."
Cori chooses to focus on the positive aspects of her mom's experience with cancer. "One of the biggest blessings from my Mom's cancer journey is that I see how it has totally changed the health trajectory for me, my husband, our future family, and my extended family. We will never be the same because of my mom getting cancer and the path she chose! Because of Mom's research and study in so many different health related strategies, we have also learned and educated ourselves in so many ways."
Kelly's holistic cancer research revealed the necessity to maintain the environment of the body at a level in which cancer cells are less likely to reproduce. For example, cancer cells thrive and grow in a low oxygen environment, therefore elevated oxygen levels in the body can prevent the cells from multiplying. An individual's risk for cancer will decrease with an alkaline ph balance. Breast cancer is directly linked to low/acidic ph levels in the body. The risk for cancer may also be reduced with eliminating endocrine disruptions from fragrances, perfumes, sunscreen, etc., and removing sugar from the diet as cancer cells thrive on sugar. Kelly's family believes in using alternative medicine and therapies to eliminate harmful toxins stored in organs, tissues, and cells as well as boost the immune system and its functioning. It is essential to support detoxifying organs with proper nutrition and supplements as well as ensure the nervous system is functioning at optimal levels to communicate with all organs of the body. They strive to find out the root cause when a health problem arises rather than treat the symptoms with prescription medications.
Cori and her husband, Jake, have made it a point to educate themselves about all health-related aspects of their lives. They have made several lifestyle changes as a result of their growing knowledge about holistic living. They have changed their diet as well as how they grocery shop and cook. The Pierson family has eliminated all processed foods as well as limit sugar, gluten, and liquid dairy. They purchase organic foods and use glass kitchenware instead of plastic. Jake and Cori have eliminated all household products with fragrances and chemicals. They use safer alternatives for cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, medicine/supplements, hygiene products, lotions, sun screen, and bug spray. Cori has moved all electrical items in the bedroom as far away from the bed as possible because they emit electromagnetic frequencies (emfs). Jake and Cori have purchased cell phone memons for further protection from emfs. They also seek other options for preventative tests and screening as an alternative to tests that emit radiation. The Piersons schedule weekly chiropractic care appointments for healthy spines and enhanced communication between organs and the nervous system. They have removed all metal products such as amalgam fillings from their teeth. They take supplements/natural remedies and use oil pulling therapy on a regular basis for preventative care and treating sickness. Cori receives restorative healthcare through Field Control Therapy, and she used natural drug-free childbirth when she delivered her daughter, Ellie. "It has been a slow ongoing lifestyle change for the last three to four years, and it will continue for us. We approach our health from a preventative stance and search to address the causes of our symptoms, rather than waiting until we are sick and only treating the symptoms."
Kelly's daughter and family strive to keep her mission and legacy alive by sharing the hope of Jesus Christ as well as important facts about the critical functions of the human body and the healing benefits of preventative healthcare. This legacy will continue to build as future generations have the opportunity to build their lives on the hope found in God's word and faith in Jesus as well as the knowledge to take care of the bodies God designed for His purpose and glory.
"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God with your body." 1 Corinthians 6:19
RESOURCES
Kelly spent hours researching cancer treatment and holistic health, using resources from books and the internet. She recommended reading these books for information about cancer and what options are available:
Cancer: Step Outside the Box, Ty Bollinger: http://www.amazon.com/Cancer-Outside-Ty-M-Bollinger/dp/0978806506
Cancer Conqueror, Greg Anderson: http://www.amazon.com/The-Cancer-Conqueror-Incredible-Wellness/dp/0836224159
Here are other websites and resources that Kelly utilized in her journey with breast cancer and holistic health:
http://www.cancertutor.com/
http://www.oasisofhope.com/
These are some of the tests that Kelly used to track the progression of her cancer:
http://cancercenterforhope.com/tests/rgcc-blood-analysis/
http://www.navarromedicalclinic.com/
For more information about Field Control Therapy and Quality Nutrition:
http://www.yurkovsky.com/
https://www.facebook.com/FlowingRiversAcupuncture
http://www.karenhurd.com/
