In this heartfelt episode of Rebel Health Collective, I welcome breast cancer survivor and advocate Claudia De Pasquale, who shares her powerful journey from diagnosis to healing and beyond. As a mother of three, Claudia faced the shock of a cancer diagnosis while balancing family life and the unexpected challenges of medical treatment. Determined to take control of her health, she embraced complementary therapies, nutrition, and lifestyle changes to manage the side effects of chemotherapy and support her long-term wellness.

Claudia opens up about her journey to find a healthcare team that aligned with her values and how self-advocacy became critical to her recovery. Through an integrative approach, she endured treatment with fewer side effects, finding a new perspective on whole-person healing. With a mission to empower others facing similar journeys, Claudia started her blog, My Cancer Diaries, as a resource for breast cancer patients, caregivers, and anyone interested in holistic health.

Join us as we discuss self-advocacy, the power of community, and the practical strategies that helped Claudia reclaim her health. This episode is packed with insights on building resilience, navigating health challenges, and combining traditional medicine with complementary therapies. Whether you're facing a health issue, supporting a loved one, or just exploring a more holistic approach to wellness, Claudia’s story offers inspiration and valuable lessons for us all.

Episode Highlights:

• Facing a Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Claudia recounts the shock of her diagnosis and the emotional impact it had, especially as a mother caring for young children.
• Finding the Right Healthcare Team: Claudia shares how she learned to seek out doctors who aligned with her values and approach to healing, and how important it is to get second and third opinions.
• Integrating Complementary Treatments: From juicing and dietary changes to meditation and hypnotherapy, Claudia details how these holistic practices helped her manage side effects and improve her overall well-being during chemotherapy.
• Empowering Through Self-Advocacy: We discuss the critical role of self-advocacy in navigating complex healthcare decisions. Claudia shares her own experiences with researching treatments, asking questions, and advocating for herself in the healthcare system.
• Building a Supportive Community: Claudia explains how her blog, My Cancer Diaries, has become a space for sharing insights and connecting with others on similar journeys. She also provides practical tips for supporting loved ones through their own health challenges.

Connect with Claudia:

• Blog: My Cancer Diaries
• Instagram: @my_cancerdiaries

Connect with Rebel Health Collective:

• Facebook: Rebel Health Collective
• Instagram: @rebelhealthcollective

**Disclaimer: Please remember that the topics and information discussed in this podcast are for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider or medical professional before making any changes to your health regimen or implementing any new treatments. Your health journey is unique, and it’s important to work with your trusted healthcare team to determine what’s best for you.**