Sheila Zimmerman
In February 2013 I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Thankfully I had previously determined if I ever faced cancer, I desired an alternative to chemotherapy and radiation. Diagnosis came and I began researching. I read Dr. Joseph Mercola (www.mercola.com) and Mike Adams' (www.naturalnews.com) newsfeeds and so was positioned to find answers. Both men present health news from an alternative perspective. Both had posted articles on Dr. Burzynski's research and also snippets of interviews; both sources led to the Cancer is Serious Business Film Series.
I am a Believer, a follower of Jesus Christ. In the midst of research I persistently prayed and resolved to go in whatever direction He would lead. The first specialist I saw was a natural health and wellness doctor who immediately placed me on an intense supplement regimen and also addressed dietary issues. This specialist shared the story of another doctor in this wellness center. The doctor's nephew had faced brain cancer in his teens and had been treated at the Burzynski Clinic. His story appears on this patient group page. Small world!
Then soon the book Knockout by Suzanne Sommers was placed in my hands. In Ms. Sommers' interview with Dr. Burzynski he explained his treatment approach. It made sense to me. As God directed, my paths kept crossing with Dr. Burzynski's research and practice while undergoing diagnostics and medical consultations.
Breast cancer surgeons I consulted recommended mastectomy. I fought; leaving heel marks everywhere I walked. I vehemently opposed what I viewed as the cut, poison, and burn regimen. In the midst of making surgery decisions, I spoke with Dr. Burzynski and also an oncologist at the Clinic. With my records in hand, they assisted as I faced the mastectomy decision. Finally I agreed to surgery, convinced it was necessary. How thankful I was to have counsel I considered outside the traditional setting.
My cancer, initially reported as Stage II, staged IIIA once the post-mastectomy pathology was completed. The cancer had metastasized to the lymph nodes and doctors identified as a high grade-high risk cancer. Still I knew I would not consent to traditional chemotherapy and requested consultation at the Burzynski Clinic.
Ultimately I became a patient and for two years was cared for by the Clinic's doctors. Recently (June 2015) I was discharged from the treatment. I am convinced the recommended treatment was necessary in my battle against cancer. All subsequent PET-scans have been clear; all bloodwork clean. My local oncologist informs me these cancers (like mine) have typically recurred by this time. I only smile; knowing God abundantly provided healing and chose my course of treatment. And I smile inside, believing this oncologist's words could not be spoken had I pursued the traditional route.
Written in such few words, my story sounds so uncomplicated, so straightforward. Any cancer patient knows the cancer path to be quite complicated and just plain hard! I am now writing a book and pray someday my story will be available for you to read. Though my highest aim is to shout His praise I also wish to encourage people to become their own advocate and educate themselves in available options when faced with difficult medical decisions.
I confess it is difficult to walk away from treatment. But more difficult it is to walk away from contact with doctors I absolutely adore and Dr. Burzynski, this doctor God used to give me life. I am humbly thankful to my God and know ultimately I owe my life to Him.