The Power of a Book

In June 2010 I was diagnosed with an invasive breast cancer which meant I needed to have a mastectomy and lymph nodes removed from my arm pit. I knew I had cancer before the doctor or the consultant confirmed it. I accepted that this had happened and I accepted what was to be. The most upsetting thing for me was not being able to ride my horse!  I really didn’t think about the impact this was having on my husband or my then very young son, I was just trying to be positive and get through it.  

Not long after my diagnosis I was sent a book in the post from someone I had met once and is part of my extended family. I was touched she had thought of me and more than anything, chuffed she had sent me a book (I love books). I flicked through the pages, it look interesting. And I put it down.

 In early 2011 my treatment for the cancer was over and I was dealing with the aftermath of surgery, chemo and radiotherapy. I was bloated, I had a breast missing, I was overweight, tired and had no hair. This was the worst part of the whole ordeal. I was in ‘No Man’s Land’. I had lost who I was, my confidence had been drained and I didn’t know where I was going and who I was anymore.

I picked up the book and began to read.  As the words spilt from the pages,  I soon realised you can’t dwell on what was or concern yourself about what maybe, to truly live, is to live in the moment.  I needed to reconnect with the real me, the inner energy of me and not let my thoughts of past or future rule. I needed to feel and see the world around me with freshness. See things for the first time and stop my busy mind!  Be grateful for the breeze on my face, the love of my family and begin the self healing, by letting go of negativity and attracting a more positive outlook for me.

 This book has helped me in my life after cancer; it has also been the centre of many of my workshops and coaching sessions over the years. And I am sure those of you who have worked with me will know the book which reshaped me and my life.

“Practising the Power of NOW “ Eckhart Tolle

 The book which reshaped me and helped me to be the person I am today.