Western Medicine vs Eastern Medicine

I recently shared some thoughts on therapy on another platform, which sparked an interesting exchange. Someone commented that chemotherapy was harmful and suggested I should adopt an "Eastern" approach, relying on herbs, diet, and avoiding sugar. While everyone is entitled to their opinion, and though I wish some people would keep theirs to themselves, I thanked her for the advice and moved on.

Naturally, this got me thinking about my treatment choices for my brain cancer (Glioblastoma). Should I reconsider my Western approach? The standard treatment includes surgery, daily radiation, and oral chemotherapy for six and a half weeks, followed by a six-month regimen of oral chemotherapy for five days each month. There is also an optional device called Optune, which delivers constant radiation to the tumor for 18 hours a day over one to two years. This is the path I have chosen.

Is this approach right for everyone? I am not sure, but it works for me. Thankfully, I have experienced minimal side effects from chemotherapy—mainly fatigue and a dry mouth. Radiation was the toughest part, with daily hospital visits and intense fatigue. The emotional toll was significant; I cried more during those months than I ever have, even more than during boot camp.

Currently, I am using Optune alongside chemotherapy, and I am on my fourth cycle with three more to go. As for my lifestyle, I have overhauled my diet, avoiding sugar and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. I lean towards a keto diet and take supplements like green tea, matcha, and mushroom powder. Regular walking has also become part of my routine. People often ask why I chose these supplements. After extensive research, I found them to be the most beneficial for me and my condition. While a few doctors advised against relying heavily on supplements, suggesting that most nutrients can be obtained through a proper diet, this combination feels right for me.

Though I often discuss my struggle with spirituality, prayer plays a big role in my life, and I strive to put positivity out into the universe. So, why did I choose chemotherapy? For me, it is about attacking this disease from every angle possible, using both Eastern and Western medicine, along with a lot of prayer. This holistic approach, combined with Western medicine, feels like the best way to fight my condition. Everyone is on their own journey, so find what works best for you.

***The treatment and lifestyle choices mentioned in this post have worked for me, but they may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medical treatment or diet.