BREAST CANCER--ONE WOMAN'S VICTORY AS DOCTOR AND PATIENT (Review by Clarissa A. Vallerie)

A female gynecologist is diagnosed with, treated for and is empowered by surviving today's biggest killer of women—breast cancer. In My Healing From Breast Cancer ($14.95) by Barbara Joseph, M.D., published by Keats Publishing of New Canaan, Connecticut, Dr. Joseph explores the internal and external toxins in our lives that cause breast cancer. Utilizing meditation, proper nutrition, conventional treatment, vitamins and minerals, herbal supplementation and prayer, Dr. Joseph explains her experience and outlines a comprehensive healing and prevention program. Christiane Northrup, M.D., author of Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom, wrote, "This is the book I will be recommending to my patients over and over again. Of all the books about breast cancer I have read, this is the one that best addresses not only how to deal with all aspects of this disease, but also what is required for breast healing."

External toxins are a significant risk factor in the development of breast cancer. Dr. Joseph explains the connection between the ailing health of our planet and the steady decline of our physical health as a population. The chemicals we spray to kill annoying insects, rodents and other pests and the preservatives we include in our foods damages the natural balance of nature. These environmental toxins not only linger in our water, air and soil but become trapped and toxic in our bodies as well. As a result we are vulnerable to disease. Dr. Joseph explains how we can maximize our healing capabilities with organic foods, vitamins and minerals, herbs and a positive mindset to combat the poisons that surround us.

Addressing the issue of toxic emotions is also a key component in Dr. Joseph's program for healing. According to Dr. Joseph the mind and body are one entity and an approach to healing must be based on this idea. Dr. Joseph writes, " I have learned that suppressed anger is lethal. Anger, unlike other emotions, does not lie dormant waiting until we are ready to deal with it. Anger is an active emotion that, if not processed in a conscious, timely and productive manner, will process itself destructively in many areas of our lives." The practice of meditation focusing on self esteem, forgiveness, releasing anger, and releasing self-blame for breast cancer is an effective tool in ridding our bodies of the toxins we create as an individual. Becoming involved in support groups and taking an active role in treatment and finding new avenues for creativity are positive ways for a woman to release negative emotions.

Barbara Joseph is a board certified obstetrician and gynecologist who provides women's health care consultations at The Center for Women's Health in Stamford, Connecticut. As a medical doctor and survivor of breast cancer, her comprehensive healing and prevention program offers the insight of someone who has played the role of patient and doctor.

" A moving book...As a doctor experiencing cancer, Barbara Joseph is the ultimate ‘native'. Read it and let the information and inspiration guide you." —Bernie Siegel, M.D.

Information taken from My Healing From Breast Cancer by Barbara Joseph, M.D. Published by Keats Publishing, Inc. of New Canaan, Connecticut

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