Ep 84 Anne Marie: My Cancer Journey

Welcome back to the Her Story: Osteoporosis series of the Stronger Bones Lifestyle Podcast. Join us as we dive into the world of bone health with women with a diagnosis of osteoporosis or osteopenia sharing experiences, insights, and strategies for leading a stronger life and taking control of their bone health. Today host Debi Robinson dives into a powerful conversation with Anne Marie, a longtime cancer survivor, advocate, and holistic health enthusiast. Anne Marie's journey through multiple cancer treatments and her proactive approach to health and wellness offer invaluable insights for those managing chronic conditions. Anne Marie has been managing her metastatic condition for 26 years. She shares the critical role of second opinions, especially from teaching hospitals and renowned specialists, and stresses the importance of self-advocacy in the healthcare system. In this episode, Anne Marie discusses the intersection of cancer treatment and bone health, talking candidly about her osteopenia diagnosis and how she incorporates weight-bearing exercises and a nutritious diet to manage her bone density. She also sheds light on her holistic practices, including energy healing and spiritual routines, which help her maintain mental and physical resilience. Listen in as Anne Marie and Debi explore various facets of living with stage four cancer, dealing with the healthcare system, and integrating holistic health practices. They emphasize the importance of mental well-being alongside physical treatment and discuss actionable steps individuals can take to manage their health proactively. Key Takeaways: [4:59] Anne Marie’s story with breast cancer [10:51] Listening to her gut [12:28] Being involved in her care [14:23] Her bone health [17:26] Genetic testing [19:01] Lifestyle factors [22:00] The tools she uses to balance her body [23:20] Yoga [27:04] Dr Jen Simmons [28:17] Dense breasts [29:36] Cancer support groups [32:58] Supporting bone health during cancer [34:50] Acidic environments and diets to support health with cancer Memorable Quotes: "It’s a team and I’m on the team and I choose who’s on my team because I have to feel good about them." [13:15] - Anne Marie "There has to be a triage in the way we show up in life." [15:30] - Debi "You have to treat the whole person." [19:56] - Anne Marie "Life is a school and this is all part of the lessons." [23:17] - Anne Marie "It's not just the person that gets the diagnosis, it’s the family." [32:26] - Debi "Allow yourself to stand in your own light and realize that you're doing the best you can." [37:41] - Anne Marie To learn more about me and to stay connected, click on the links below: Instagram: @debirobinsonwellness Website: DebiRobinson.com Learn more about and join the Healthy Gut Healthy Bones Program