I was diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer in November 2003 after discovering a lump measuring 2.5 cm by 1.5 cm. Two months later, in January 2004, I made my first visit to Oasis of Hope Hospital.

In the U.K., my oncologist wanted to begin chemotherapy and hormonal treatments immediately, as I was sixty years old at the time. However, having always used alternative treatments throughout my life and having witnessed the harsh side effects of conventional chemotherapy, I wanted to explore other options before committing to anything.

Through a family friend, I learned about Oasis of Hope, which was known at that time for offering non-toxic, integrative cancer therapies. Despite some initial hesitation about traveling all the way to Mexico and paying out-of-pocket for my treatment (as opposed to receiving free care in the U.K.), I decided to take the leap of faith — knowing there were no guarantees but trusting that I was making the right choice.

Within a day of arriving at Oasis of Hope, my fears and doubts disappeared. The treatments were explained in detail, the staff was warm and compassionate, and the environment was unlike any hospital I had ever experienced. Even though my only prior hospital experience was giving birth to my two children, I immediately sensed that Oasis of Hope was a place of healing, peace, and faith.

My body responded extremely well to the treatments. Because of the long distance from the U.K., I scheduled follow-up visits every six months, which later became annual visits after five years. I remained in remission for nearly fifteen years, grateful every day for the life and hope that Oasis of Hope helped restore.