76: Faith-Fueled Songwriting as a Balm for Cancer | Lisa Simmons

02/06/24 • 33 min

When the storm clouds of breast cancer loomed on the horizon, Lisa Simmons found her beacon of hope in the form of faith and a community that stands strong together. In a heartfelt episode, Lisa takes us through the twists and turns of her cancer journey, discussing the pivotal role played by her support system, including an oncology navigator friend and HealingStrong, a holistic cancer support group where she serves as a co-leader in the North Dallas, Texas area. Her story is a testament to the power of informed decisions, patience, and the solace found in faith, offering a guiding light to those who might feel adrift in similar choppy waters.
Strumming the strings of nostalgia, we reflect on the melodies that have been our life's soundtrack, from the familial echoes of guitars and mandolins to the first bass guitar that sparked a fire within us. Music weaves through the episode as both Lisa and I share the evolution of our songwriting journeys—from childhood ditties to songs that strike deep chords within our souls. The conversation is an open invitation to you too, to discover the melodies and lyrics that lie dormant in your own life experiences, awaiting your creative touch to bring them to life.
Bridging the gap between songwriting and natural healing, this episode opens up about the cathartic process of transforming life's moments into music or poetry. We celebrate songwriting's power to enrich our personal legacy and delve into the healing qualities of singing scripture. Natural healing and nutrition also make an appearance, shedding light on how these elements can complement medical knowledge on our wellness paths. Join us for an episode that harmonizes the spirit of resilience, the artistry of music, and the dedication of HealingStrong to inspire and empower those embarking on their own health journeys.

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75: The Crucial Link Between Gut Health and Disease Management Part 2 | Linda Murphy

We continue in part 2 with Linda Murphy, a registered holistic nutritionist, shedding light on the profound influence of gut health. She introduces us to the powerhouse that is stomach acid, our unsung hero in the fight against harmful bacteria and the key to unlocking vibrant digestion through healthy bile production. We're not just talking about avoiding upset stomachs—this episode reveals how a balanced gut microbiome is your shield against inflammation and autoimmune diseases. It's an insightful look at the intricate dance between our internal flora and our well-being, and trust me, you'll want to know the steps.
As we wade through the often misunderstood waters of detoxification, Linda guides us through our body's natural defenses, like mucus and fever, and poses an intriguing perspective on common flu-like symptoms. Could they be a sign of internal cleansing rather than illness? We'll also touch on the emotional threads that weave through our digestive health, underscoring the impact stress can have on our thyroid and adrenal health. With practical tips on combating unwelcome guests like parasites and Candida, this episode is brimming with natural remedies and dietary advice to support your body's detoxification process.
Finally, we turn our attention to the power of community in the healing process. Linda highlights how HealingStrong, a nonprofit organization, is creating a lifeline for individuals grappling with cancer and other diseases. Discover how joining forces with a support group or accessing free educational resources can be a turning point in your health journey. So, if you've ever felt alone in your quest for wellness, let this episode be a beacon of hope and empowerment, reminding you that every small step is a leap towards a healthier, happier you.
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77: The Sanctuary of Community for Those Fighting Cancer | Madeline Balmaceda

When Madeline Balmaceda stepped through the doors of HealingStrong, she wasn't just searching for a community; she was seeking refuge from the storm of anxiety that accompanied her loved ones' health struggles. Her story, woven into this episode, is a powerful testament to the solace one can find amid despair, and the unexpected support that can come from leaning into faith and scripture. Join us as Madeline opens up about the tranquility she discovered and how the simple act of absorbing the Bible's words provided her an anchor in turbulent times.
Battles with illness can often feel solitary, but they don't have to be. In my own fight against cancer, I found a bastion of support in the Healing Strong community, which stood as a testament to the strength found in unity. This episode isn't just about my journey, though—it's about my daughter KarriAnn's courage as she faces her renewed cancer challenge with a deepened faith and an embrace of the support that HealingStrong offers, regardless of the miles that separate us. Together, we're traversing the rough waters of uncertainty with a strengthened spirit and a bond that distance cannot weaken.
Wrapping up our conversations, we pivot to the remarkable tale of a former performer whose life's path has meandered through the realms of education, corporate life, and, now, a spiritually-rich retirement. The episode rounds out by shining a light on the core mission of Healing Strong: empowering individuals through faith on their healing journey and offering a wealth of resources to foster this empowerment. Whether it's through sharing your own story of encouragement or supporting the community, this episode invites you to discover the transformative power of faith, hope, and togetherness.
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Around the Word in 80 Days

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I AM HealingStrong - 76: Faith-Fueled Songwriting as a Balm for Cancer | Lisa Simmons

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:00.040

What would you tell someone who's listening , who you know I ask this question a lot If they've just gotten a diagnosis and they're scared ? You know , you remember that feeling when you first got diagnosed . It's just takes your breath away . But what would you tell them to encourage them at this point ?

Speaker 200:00:15.539

Well , I think the thing that