Surviving a brain tumor is a very personal thing. It's not a matter of a right way or a wrong way. Western medicine tends to take the view that brain tumors can only be treated rather than cured, and also tends to be the least optimistic in offering a prognosis of how long one is likely to survive. Nonetheless, new techniques and discoveries are prolonging life for thousands of people.

Alternative therapies are becoming more and more accepted by the medical mainstream. These can range from simple visualization and meditation techniques to expensive live-in programs. And the power of faith...whether it is religious in origin or simply a case of mind over matter...can be a powerful tool in overcoming a life-threatening disease. Many people, myself included, have employed a combination of things to persevere. The most important thing is to find a path that resonates for you, and dedicate yourself to following it. This is the path I have chosen to follow...not being a doctor, I cannot prescribe any specific program, but can only share what has worked for me:

• An integrated approach

I followed the treatment program administered by my medical team at the University of San Francisco, but I supplemented that approach by working with the Pine Street Clinic in San Anselmo, California and its well-renowned nutritionist, Michael Broffman. Michael prescribed a regimen of supplements and Chinese herbs to help me withstand the rigors of radiation and chemotherapy. I also sought out cranial-sacral therapy, a subtle but powerful form of bodywork. Another valuable resource is a support group. The Center for Attitudinal Healing in Saualito, California offers a wonderful group for survivors of life-threatening diseases and another one for their caregivers.

• A willingness to follow your instincts

When traditional treatments failed, I sought out a Chi Gung practitoner and healer, Don Rubbo, also in San Anselmo, some time after purchasing a video of Chi Gung movements. Something about the gracefulness of the practice and its history as a self-healing technique spoke to me, and at the time I needed it the most, I listened to an inner voice that guided me to Don. He worked with me to develop a program to follow, and also arranged for a distant healing chanting by Tibetan monks. My daily Chi Gung practice has not only allowed me to regain my health, but has brought me an enhanced sense of well-being and mindfulness.

• A positive attitude

It's easy to become overwhelmed when diagnosed with a brain tumor. Most of the information you receive in the beginning will be alarming, regardless of the subtlety (or lack thereof) that your doctor may employ in giving it to you. Researching the internet will also turn up the scary stuff first. Know that there are many stories of long-term survivors (such as the site for the National Brain Tumor Foundation) that can inspire and encourage you. Seek them out. Keep in mind also that the most important thing is to make the time to take care of yourself.

What's worked for me:

Chi Gung self-healing

Cranial Sacral Therapy

Support Groups

Nutritional Supplements: I'm currently taking a Chinese formula from the Pine Street Clinic, in addition to supplements including Whey Protein, Colostrum, Curcumin, Alpha Lipoic, IP-6, Acetyl-Carnitine, Taurine, Shark Liver Oil, Calcium/Magnesium and Flax Seed. (These are usually available at health food stores.) I have also had success with a lactobacillus called Del-Immune (by mail order from Boulder, Colorado) and Phyto-Statin (by mail order from Montreal). Consult your own nutritionist for a program that best suits your needs.

More information about the practitioners, support groups and nutritional supplements mentioned here can be obtained through the Links & Resources page.

May you survive and thrive!
LISTEN to "Survival."