Embracing Life: Finding Joy and Purpose During Your Healing Journey

Embracing Life: Finding Joy and Purpose During Your Healing Journey

Breast Cancer Hero's Journey
February 23, 2025•4 min read

When life delivers an unexpected diagnosis like cancer, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, fearful, and unsure of what’s next. For many of us, this fear can paralyze us, pulling us into a dark place where it feels impossible to see the light. But here’s what I learned on my journey: fear isn’t a reflection of the end—it’s a sign that we’re not living fully.

Shifting From Fear to Living

One of the most common fears people have when faced with a diagnosis is the fear of dying. But as my doctor, Dr. Chantelle Thornton, once said, “None of us know when our time will come. You could leave this office and get hit by a bus.” Her point wasn’t to dismiss the seriousness of my diagnosis but to remind me that life’s uncertainty is universal. What matters most is how we choose to live each day.

Initially, I found myself consumed by fear, asking questions like, What’s left for me? What can I even do now? But as I worked through my emotions, I realized that this fear stemmed from one simple truth: I wasn’t living the life I truly wanted.

Rediscovering Joy Through Creativity

To combat this fear, I decided to reconnect with the things that made me happy. These weren’t grand or extravagant changes but small, meaningful activities that brought me joy.

I started coloring mandalas, a creative outlet that calmed my mind. I explored flower arranging, a craft I’d always loved, and even tried my hand at painting. These activities weren’t about becoming an artist or impressing anyone—they were about finding happiness in the present moment.

Whatever it is that brings you joy—gardening, reading, dancing, or even learning something new—make time for it. These moments of joy create a powerful energy that helps you move through challenges with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Harnessing the Healing Energy of Crystals

Another passion I discovered was working with crystals. For years, I had been drawn to their beauty and energy. Still, during my healing journey, I began to understand their deeper significance. I learned about the properties of different crystals. How amethyst promotes relaxation and clarity, citrine encourages transformation, and rose quartz fosters self-love.

Crystals became a source of comfort for me. I carried them to appointments, placed them around my home, and even brought them to the hospital during my surgery. They weren’t a cure but a reminder of my inner strength and connection to healing energy.

Creating a Sanctuary at Home

Your home should be your haven, a place where you feel protected and at peace. During my journey, I made my home a sanctuary by introducing crystals, essential oils, salt lamps, and humidifiers. These elements helped cleanse the space of negative energy and created an environment where I could truly relax and recharge.

If you’re going through a challenging time, consider creating a space that feels like a refuge. It doesn’t need to be elaborate—small changes like adding soothing scents, decluttering, or incorporating natural elements can make a big difference.

Letting Go of Expectations

One of the most transformative aspects of my journey was learning to let go of expectations and embrace authenticity. For so long, I had worn masks, trying to be what others needed me to be. But through this process, I realized the power of living as my true self.

I stopped worrying about what others thought and started doing what made me happy. Whether it was dancing in my living room, laughing at a comedy club, or simply taking time for myself, these moments helped me reconnect with my inner joy.

Why Doing What You Love Matters

When you do what you love, you’re not just filling time—you’re lifting your energy, connecting with your passions, and rediscovering the beauty of life. It’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of fear and worry, but by focusing on what brings you joy, you can break free from that cycle and move forward with positivity and hope.

This isn’t about ignoring your challenges—it’s about finding balance. Life doesn’t stop because of a diagnosis, and neither should your happiness.

So, what have you always wanted to do? Maybe it’s reading a book you’ve been putting off, learning a new skill, or simply spending time with loved ones. Whatever it is, don’t wait. Start living today.

Remember, life isn’t about how much time we have—it’s about how we choose to spend it. Create joy, embrace your passions, and live fully, no matter the circumstances.

For more inspiration and resources to support your journey, visit me at GraceDeAngeli.com. Together, we can create a life filled with purpose, love, and healing.

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Grace De Angeli is a holistic breast cancer advocate, author, and mentor who has turned her personal journey with breast cancer into a mission to empower women around the world. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, Grace chose to combine both Western medicine and holistic approaches in her healing journey. She discovered the importance of addressing not only the physical aspects of cancer but also the emotional, spiritual, and psychological impacts. Through her work, Grace helps women take control of their breast cancer journey by providing compassionate support, encouraging self-care, and emphasizing the power of a positive mindset. She believes that healing is deeply personal, and no two journeys are the same—just as each person’s fingerprint is unique. Her approach combines practical advice with a strong focus on inner strength, spiritual alignment, and self-discovery, empowering women to move forward with courage and confidence. Grace's passion for helping others is rooted in her own experiences. She has written a book documenting her journey and uses her platform to inspire women to trust their intuition, embrace their transformations, and pursue the life they’ve always wanted. Whether through one-on-one support, group courses, or speaking engagements, Grace is dedicated to guiding women to live authentically and courageously, no matter the obstacles they face.

Grace De Angeli

Grace De Angeli is a holistic breast cancer advocate, author, and mentor who has turned her personal journey with breast cancer into a mission to empower women around the world. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, Grace chose to combine both Western medicine and holistic approaches in her healing journey. She discovered the importance of addressing not only the physical aspects of cancer but also the emotional, spiritual, and psychological impacts. Through her work, Grace helps women take control of their breast cancer journey by providing compassionate support, encouraging self-care, and emphasizing the power of a positive mindset. She believes that healing is deeply personal, and no two journeys are the same—just as each person’s fingerprint is unique. Her approach combines practical advice with a strong focus on inner strength, spiritual alignment, and self-discovery, empowering women to move forward with courage and confidence. Grace's passion for helping others is rooted in her own experiences. She has written a book documenting her journey and uses her platform to inspire women to trust their intuition, embrace their transformations, and pursue the life they’ve always wanted. Whether through one-on-one support, group courses, or speaking engagements, Grace is dedicated to guiding women to live authentically and courageously, no matter the obstacles they face.

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