Jan Pederson

My husband and I are active in the gym at least three times a week. Around the end of 2002, I wasn't feeling like myself. I noticed my workouts were getting harder for me.

In February 2003, I went to the gym and talked to a woman named Shelly, who is an RN. She was still grieving over the loss of her sister to breast cancer six months earlier. I asked Shelly why I felt worse after a workout, especially in the abdominal area where I was bloated. She asked if I also had backaches. I told her sometimes I did. She thought my symptoms could be ovarian cancer and recommended I see a doctor. Well, that hit me like a ton of bricks. However, it was what the Lord wanted me to hear, so I made an appointment to see a doctor.

Within a couple of days, I was given a blood test for ovarian cancer. The results of the CA- 125 test came back 1119. Not knowing what a normal count was, I asked the doctor. He said 0-35. I was devastated. After hearing this distressing news, I met my husband Bruce at the gym. He was working out with a few of our friends. I told them what the doctor had said. They were also shocked and devastated. Then, right there, we all prayed. Bruce and I went home, fell into each other's arms and just cried. Our love for each other was stronger than ever before. He stood by me every minute. Within two days, I found an oncologist and was on the operating table. They removed a two-pound tumor and a gallon of fluid that the tumor had produced.

I went back to the oncologist a few days after the operation. He said I was in Stage 3 of ovarian cancer, and I must start chemotherapy immediately, or I would probably not live more than six months. I asked him about diet, nutrition and supplements, but he just scoffed at that. I didn't want just chemo. I wanted to do everything I could to beat this cancer.

I did a lot of research, even checking out options in Mexico. I prayed for the Lord's guidance and, through a friend, I was led to Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA). I called CTCA, and the information specialist told me they have a team of professionals who cover every aspect of body, mind and spirit. They treat the whole person, and this was what I was looking for...a team of doctors who would work with me to decide the best course of action to fight this disease. That gave me HOPE. CTCA made all of my arrangements, including verification of insurance, air travel and lodging. With that taken care of, I could now focus on me.

When I walked into CTCA's lobby, I felt the Lord's presence, and I knew I was in the right place. I met with Dr. Williams, and she prescribed a treatment plan that included fractionated doses of chemotherapy, along with diet, nutrition and supplements. Unlike conventional chemotherapy treatments, where a heavy dose is given within two to three hours, fractionated doses are administered over several days, which may be more effective in killing cancer cells. This slower method may also produce fewer side effects.

Next, I met with the naturopath. Working along with the nutritionist, she set up a complete program designed for my particular type of cancer. The doctors and staff were helpful, friendly and encouraging. They made my journey easier to go through. CTCA's doctors worked as a team, along with the naturopath and nutritionist, using state-of-the-art technology to fight cancer on all fronts.

CTCA also offered the services of a pastor on staff, and I accepted right away. Pastor Percy was tender and caring, and helped strengthen and reassure me. Other hospitals may not offer pastoral services for people who have faith and trust in the Lord. I looked forward to going to Cancer Treatment Centers of Amercia for my treatments, because it became my second home. My advice to someone with cancer is to be sure you are receiving the best care and treatment. I know I did and that was at CTCA.

Life is precious; life is sweet; each day is special with God's mercy. I enjoy sharing the experiences I have had at CTCA and encouraging others. I can truly claim, "And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." 1 Peter 5:10

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