I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 48. My annual appointment with my gynecologist the previous month had indicated a clean bill of health. As recommended, I proceeded to schedule my yearly mammogram for the following month. On the day of my mammogram, the radiologist took the standard first set of x-rays, and then opted for a second set. The first set had indicated some density in the right breast. I was sent home only to be notified three days later that I needed to go in for another mammogram. The second visit resulted in an immediate biopsy on the same day. I was told that I had invasive ductal carcinoma: Breast Cancer.

It throws you into a tunnel of darkness and fear. I was faced with my mortality, my dwindling sense of femininity, and my children’s fear that I might die. In addition, I did not have much time to reflect, as medical treatment had to begin immediately.

Through research, I became familiar with my treatment options. I could not change the fact that I had breast cancer, but I could control how I handled it. In my case, lumpectomy surgery followed by radiation was the prescribed treatment. In those dark days of fear, urgency, and loneliness, what was missing in my life was someone to guide me through the maze, a friend to hold my hand, and a coach to guide me through. I just kept praying: God, please tell me where to go from here, what to do, and how to do it….

I have survived cancer and I find myself to be a much stronger person. I value life and live every day with more joy, peace, and gratitude for the gift I have been given: THE GIFT OF LIFE. I have learned that breast cancer is not a death sentence if detected early and treated effectively. I have also learned that you can experience a quality life after cancer.

With the help of my family, friends, and good hearted strangers, I started a nonprofit organization named Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation. Our vision in the past four years has been a kinder world where disadvantaged women anywhere in the world have gained the awareness, knowledge, and the means to face the challenge of surviving breast cancer. Our mission has been to establish a global network of health care professionals and support groups, to raise awareness, promote education, facilitate treatment, and to restore hope.

I heard many sad stories and some uplifting ones as well. I met new friends, and some angels too. I met a social worker who told me of one breast cancer woman’s wish to look “normal” again. That is when I made it my mission to find affordable prostheses for the needy. Last year I collected surplus wigs and prostheses and distributed them to women in need. I met with physicians working in the third world countries who spoke of a need for educational brochures within their countries. To meet their requests, I began translating pamphlets and distributed over 5000 information displays that can teach women how to perform self breast exams. With our first grant from The Susan Komen Foundation, I was able to actively promote breast health and cancer awareness in some immigrant communities in the States of Oregon and Washington. And of course, every time I was told of numerous cases of financial need, I renewed my fundraising campaign efforts tirelessly. In addition, since 2003 I have gone through many training programs to further develop my ability to assist patients. I have attended Hospice Training by Providence St. Vincent Hospice, Outreach Program offered by Providence of Portland, Reach to Recovery by American Cancer Society, and Hot Line program by Y-ME Natioanl Breast Cancer Organization.

Last year, I finally gave up my job in the mortgage business so I could be a full time resource to cancer patients. I traveled for four months to the developing countries so that breast cancer patients could see a living example of a person enjoying a blissful life after cancer. I coached many survivors to live a life that they could only dream of before. After my return to the US, I decided to transform my dream into reality. With encouragement from my friends and family, I made the decision to go through formal training and to become a professional life coach specializing in helping people who are challenged by significant life changing events - including cancer. I knew everything I had done in my life had led me to coaching and I felt in peace with this decision.

in real estate and mortgage finance meant a personal financial sacrifice, but my commitment to this cause was unwavering. Currently, I am completing the formal coaching certification program at The Coaching Training Institute in San Rafael of California, one of the first educational institutions to develop and offer accredited coaching training and one of the oldest and most experienced coaching schools in the world.

But also brought back my authentic self. At the time of my diagnosis, I was living a life of despair and felt like a victim. Through my spiritual journey, I have healed my own life and made peace with the past, present, and the future. Since 1992, I have taken part in a number of workshops and teaching seminars including Krishnamurti, “A Course in Miracle”, classes in Science of Mind (which is based on Ernest Holme’s works), Landmark Education, and a retreat with Krishnamurti, Meditation, Creative Visualization, Affirmation, and Healing Touch Program. These teachings have gifted me the awareness needed for my journey.

I left my old values, beliefs and behaviors by knowing my true self is not the unhappy person that I used to be. I began moving to greater health, joy, compassion and fulfillment. I became aware of my available options, and the choices that I could make….I started to co-create my life, making authentic choices in every moment according to the truth of who I am. I started to live in the NOW moment. I realized the source within me and the need for this source of vitality to be seen, heard, and recognized in order to release and manifest its potential…in every aspect of life. Now I see each and every one of us as an extraordinary and unique being worthy of love and compassion and capable of infinite wisdom and possibilities. Yes, I have walked the path, and if you wish to have a friend to walk you through your life journey….I will be there for you.

My mission would be to inspire you through our coaching - and for you to live a blissful life in which you can truly be you.

Benaz Shidfar