Superpowers & Serendipity Saved My Life

By Michelle DeWolf “You Have Cancer.” 

Words no one wants to hear. 

 In 2024, I began a cancer journey I never expected. What saved me? Advocating for my own health. 

When Your Body Knows Before the Tests Do 

For two years, I felt an alarm ringing inside me. Apathy settled in. I had persistent aches, digestive distress, hormonal chaos, and an unshakable sense that something was deeply wrong. 

My concerns were repeatedly dismissed—labeled as “normal aging,” “stress,” or “emotional.” My OB-GYN canceled on me six different times in a single year. Another doctor suggested antidepressants. I knew that wasn’t the answer. My body was trying to tell me something. 

In August 2023, I told my husband the words that terrified both of us:  

 “I feel like I’m dying.” I pushed harder for answers. My GP referred me to a new OB-GYN— one who listened. 

 Despite perfectly “normal” bloodwork, I insisted something was wrong. She ordered a Cancer Antigen 125 blood test and my level was slightly elevated.  

On July 18th, 2024, I learned this could be an early sign of cancer. 

Surgery, Renewal, and Superpowers 

 Everything accelerated. On August 5th, I had surgery. What happened next still amazes me. Within a day, I felt more alive than I had in years. Colors looked brighter. Food tasted better. My body felt “normal” to me. 

From September to December, I completed six rounds of chemo. I kept walking, coaching, moving, nourishing myself, and showing up with gratitude. Nutrition and lifestyle didn’t cure my cancer, but they strengthened me every step of the way. 

 Nutrition became my superpower. Food truly became medicine, partnering with the protocols from my remarkable medical team. Hydration, nourishment, and lifestyle choices supported my body as it processed and recovered from treatment. 

Vulnerability, Identity, and Purpose 

As a health coach, facing cancer felt deeply vulnerable. How could I get cancer? How could I continue guiding clients?

 But cancer doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care how knowledgeable or disciplined you are. It reminded me that our bodies fight off rogue cells every day—and sometimes, those cells slip through. 

Early detection saved me. Watching my liver work through chemo reinforced how powerful nutrition, movement, and hydration truly are. And my years of focusing on wellness helped me cope, recover, and stay strong. 

The Healing Power of Movement and Community 

A friend gave me simple advice that became transformative: 

“Get outside and move every day.” 

 So I did—rain or shine, energy or fatigue. I invited friends, turning everyday movement into moments of connection and celebration. My husband became my anchor. My friends showed up with unwavering love. And in the middle of everything, I loved my community all over again. 

The Serendipity That Saved My Life 

When I look back, the path to my diagnosis feels almost mystical. 

If I hadn’t been canceled on so many times, I might have given up. 

If we hadn’t moved, I wouldn’t have met the angel who encouraged and empowered me. If frustration hadn’t pushed me to find a new doctor, I might have missed the tests that caught my cancer early. 

Every setback led to the answers that saved me. 

My Message to You 

Please—don’t wait. 

 My commitment to advocating for my health is the reason I am here today. Schedule your screenings. Follow up on symptoms. Trust your intuition. And if you feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin, I’m here. 

Together, we can explore Lifestyle and Food as medicine —building foundations that support your whole health. You are not alone. You and your body deserve to be heard. Connect With Michelle www.michelledewolf.com