Anne Marie Bennett

“But, I don’t want to have breast cancer!”

I know. This wasn’t part of the vision you had for your life…

It wasn’t an item that you wrote on your To-Do list so you wouldn’t forget.

No. getting diagnosed with breast cancer was definitely NOT on the agenda.

And yet here you are.

You’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer.

So now what?

• Are you trying to figure out how you’re going to get through it?
• Has it been hard to even accept that you’ve got breast cancer?
• Are the heavy-duty treatments you’re receiving dragging you down and making you wonder if you’re ever going to feel normal and good again?

Maybe you’re secretly hoping that the next time you go in for an appointment your doctor will say, “I’ve got great news! It was all a mistake. You can go home and you don’t need any more treatments or surgeries.”

And even though you know that’s probably not going to happen, you’re still wishing that you could put this all behind you…

You wish you could just go back to your life the way it was before you got The Diagnosis and your whole world was turned upside-down.

And whether you’re just about to start treatments, or you’ve already begun them, you find yourself bombarded with thoughts like:

• Am I going to die?
• Why me?
• How am I going to get through this?
• What will happen if I lose my hair?
• Who should I tell about my cancer and what should I say to them?
• How am I going to find time to deal with this breast cancer with all the appointments and treatments I have to do?
• Will the treatments make me sick?
• Am I ever going to feel normal or good again?
• How are my kids and grandkids going to be affected?

Even though these tough questions don’t have easy answers, they’re the same types of questions that other women with breast cancer are asking themselves.

So if you’ve been worrying that maybe you’re the only one thinking things like this, take a deep breath right now with the important recognition that you’re not alone.

Go ahead. No one’s watching…deep breath.

There. That felt good didn’t it?

Now, here’s something important you should know:

Even though having breast cancer wasn’t part of your life plan, you can still live a full, vibrant, and amazing life full of happiness, spirituality, and dignity.

Don’t worry. I’m not talking about ungrounded, Pollyanna type thinking that feels fake and inauthentic.

I’m talking about genuine connection with yourself and The Divine that can support and carry you through even the darkest and most physically painful times.

If you’re kind of rolling your eyes a little bit, it’s okay.

Before I went through breast cancer myself, I had heard of women who said that breast cancer was the “best thing that ever happened to them.”

I’d heard of women who said that it changed their lives – and that even if they could wave a magic wand over their lives, they wouldn’t go back and make it so they didn’t get cancer in the first place.

And here’s what I thought when I heard stories like that…

“No way! Cancer is awful and it couldn’t possibly be something that a woman would be grateful for. These women are crazy.”

Have you been thinking things like that?

Well, after being a breast cancer survivor for 8 years, and finding my way through my own diagnosis and the treatments that followed, I can recognize the wisdom in what those “crazy women” were saying.

Breast cancer isn’t fun.

And it wasn’t something that I asked for.

But it did serve as a catalyst – as a wake up call – for finding a deeper appreciation for life, and a deeper connection with the Divine that has stayed with me after all these years.

By keeping a hand-written journal as I went through my entire journey with breast cancer, and using it as the basis for my book Bright Side of the Road, I’ve been able to help so many women, women just like you, who wanted to find a deeper meaning in their experience with breast cancer.

(Click here to find out how to order, or please continue reading…)

Here’s a Peek At Bright Side Of The Road…

Since you aren’t in a bookstore where you can take the book off the shelf and flip through some of the pages, I’ve included some passages from the book below so you can get a feel for how it’s written.

Sunday, December 2

Tonight when I climb into bed, I give in to the fear and begin to weep uncontrollably. Jeff lies beside me, holding me tightly, letting me cry. I vaguely wonder if I should be handling this better, if I should be stronger, less afraid, more confident.

But I made a promise to myself a few days ago: to cry when I need to cry. I know that inner strength doesn’t really have anything to do with how many tears fall from a woman’s eyes.

I’m telling myself this while I’m crying, along with wondering what Jeff would do if I did die, speculating whether this might be the last Christmas Carol production I’ll ever see, and asking myself what if this is the last time I’ll hug my niece Allison who is coming from Atlanta this week to visit.

The thoughts spin themselves like sticky webs across my mind until I remind myself to take a deep breath and stay in the moment. This moment. The only moment I have.

I see now what I didn’t see a few days ago when fear was taking control. I have a choice. And this is my choice: to claim my life, to fight for it, to do what needs to be done. – Page 16

Thursday, December 13

I still can’t quite grasp the fact that I have cancer. It’s beyond my belief of who I am and what my life is supposed to be like. There are cancer cells in my breast, my left breast. Even now as I write this, they are here, here in my body. This infuriates me. I love my breasts. The men in my life have always loved my breasts. They’re mine. Mine. MINE!!!! I want to scream GET THESE DAMNED CANCER CELLS OUT OF ME. I DON’T WANT THEM IN MY BODY. – Page 26

Friday, December 14

Later in the afternoon, as the light outside my window softens into dusk, I come to a decision. I have breast cancer and I’m going to survive it. It’s not going to kill me; it’s just going to be one more interesting thing about me.

I have no idea on God’s sweet earth where this thought has come from, but I seize and embrace it, clutch it to my heart like a drowning woman would grab at an inner tube thrown to her from a rescue ship. And I decide to believe it with all of my being- body, mind and soul. Just one more interesting thing. Yes, that’s exactly right. I have a passion for cats and Broadway musicals and empty notebooks. I sincerely love long walks, the ocean, and good music. I am a writer and an artist. I make beautiful collage cards. Now I can add the detail of breast cancer to that list.

I think of the numerous breast cancer survivors I’ve seen on the Rosie O’Donnell Show. I recall articles in women’s magazines about breast cancer survivors. I think of the women on the web bulletin boards whose stories I read this morning. And I’m beginning to sense a glimmer of hope. – Page 31

Tuesday, January 8

I feel as though my life is never ever going to be the same again. It may look on the outside like everything is the same (except for these two small scars), but on the inside I know that I’m forever and indelibly changed.

Breast cancer has entered and invaded my life; it has transformed me and not just on a cellular level. There is fear, but there is also blessing. There is pain, but there is also joy. I’m learning to let go of things much more quickly than I ever thought possible. – Page 64

Sunday, January 20

This freewheeling anger has to do with the “why me?” syndrome, which I was thinking had passed me by. I see now it has not passed me by at all, it’s simply been waiting in the wings for an appropriate string of idle moments to move in and settle down. These why me thoughts are swirling around in my head like some crazy tornado, stirring up the angry clouds of self-righteousness.

Jeff is being very good about my temporary invalid status, but he just doesn’t get what is happening to me. As he was leaving this morning, he grasped my left arm and pulled me to him in a kiss. My left arm, three days out of surgery. My left arm, which feels like it’s been run over by a bulldozer.

My left arm, my “surgical” arm as the books refer to it. I shrieked in pain; he pulled away quickly, embarrassed that he had forgotten. And then I cried warm tears of guilt for having to push him away.

I feel disabled and imprisoned by the newly heavy weight of my left arm. Will it ever feel “normal” again?

Who is that stranger with the pale face and honey blonde straight hair? I’m slowly coming to accept that she is me, and I like her, even so. – Page 86

Saturday, January 26

My depression also stems from the guilt I feel about how drastically our sex life has changed because of my illness, because of my surgery. After the second surgery, I had to ask Jeff to sleep in the armchair for a few nights.

I felt guilty about that but I couldn’t sleep for fear of him jostling and injuring my left arm. He’s being so kind and sweet about the whole thing, but I can’t help feeling bad about it. He’s back to sleeping in our bed, but a few nights ago I asked if we could switch sides because it was more comfortable for me that way. Why didn’t anyone prepare me for this part of the recovery process? – Page 92

Wednesday, March 6

I’m losing my hair. But it isn’t happening the way I thought it would. It’s not exactly falling out, but appears to be loosening its hold on my head, like it doesn’t need me anymore. And I’m at the stage now where it only comes out if I run my fingers through it. Taking a shower is becoming a tedious, time-consuming procedure; strands and strands of my hair keep getting tangled in my fingers and I’m using gallons of water rinsing them all off.

I started wearing the wig yesterday and so far I’m okay with it, although it startles me a little when I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror. – Page 123

The true heart of this book is Anne Marie’s honesty and openness.  Nothing is held back.  Women at all stages of their journey with breast cancer will benefit from her candid telling of her own story of healing. I’m already planning on using the book in my upcoming support group to help the women go on their own spiritual journey with breast cancer.

— Fran Booth, Social Worker, Therapist & Meditation Teacher, The Healing Garden, Harvard Massachusetts

(Click here to find out how to order, or please continue reading…)

What Else Will You Find In Bright Side Of The Road?

When I was newly diagnosed with breast cancer I scoured the internet looking for books and resources to educate myself. I found lots of books focused on the practical details of having breast cancer, but what I really wanted was a book that talked about the spiritual aspect of having breast cancer.

When I wrote this book, Bright Side Of The Road, I wrote the book that I wanted to read when I was going through my breast cancer diagnosis and treatments.

Inside you’ll read about…

• What it was like when I found a message from the nurse on my answering machine telling me to call them back after my annual mammogram. (page 11)
• How I developed and maintained an excellent relationship with my doctors.
• A special mantra I used when I started getting consumed with scary “what if” thinking. (page 17)
• The exact moment I heard from my doctor that “There are cancerous cells in your biopsy sample.” (page 21)
• What it was like to tell my boss about my diagnosis. (page 25)
• How I got through the first few days of my diagnosis. (page 26+)
• Finding and sustaining hope by connecting with other breast cancer survivors (page 32)
• What I found when I Googled my doctor’s name. (page 37)
• The chain of thoughts that allowed me to start having real gratitude for each moment. (page 44)
• The color my pee turned after getting the lumpectomy. (page 55)
• The best place to cry in a public bathroom. (page 65)
• Why I didn’t dread my second surgery. (page 77)
• A simple little thing that can make wig shopping more fun – even if you’re losing your hair or you’re totally bald. (page 105)
• The 5 affirmations I used during my chemo sessions to help me stay focused and positive. You can write these on a note card and take them with you. (page 108)
• How I used my nightly dreams to help me discern what I really wanted from my life. (page 115)
• The 7 words my oncologist said to me that made a huge difference in my healing. (page ———–)
• The 3 things I did to make losing my hair more bearable – one which involves the word “crusher.” (chapter 15)
• A simple ritual I created that helped me to sleep at night. (page 124)
• How I dealt with the lack of control over my own body by learning what I could control. (page 138)
• What I did to overcome my fear of lymphedema. (page 139)
• My journey with forgiveness – both of others and of myself. (page 142)
• Stuff about SEX! (page 153)
• What I did when even the personal lubricants weren’t helping sex feel better. (page 160)
• A simple activity I did with my husband to help me express my difficult feelings. (page 163)
• My personal declaration of independence – which can give you ideas for how to make your own too. (page 165)
• How I found myself in a hot tub with a bunch of naked women – and the amazing things I learned from them. (page 182)
• And much, much more…

Making Sure It’s Right For You…

Your energy and attention span is probably already limited as it is, so I don’t want you wasting your time reading something that isn’t what you’re actually looking for.

So I’ve put together some guidelines to help you make an educated decision about whether this book is right for you.

You’ll probably LOVE reading Bright Side of the Road if…

• You’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer recently and you’re feeling scared about what’s in store…
• You feel discouraged that your friends and family don’t really understand what you’re going through…
• You’re in the middle of receiving breast cancer treatments and you want some encouragement that you can see it through to the other side…
• You enjoy reading memoirs about strong women who have overcome adversity…
• You’re looking for a deeper connection with The Divine as you go through your journey with breast cancer…
• You want some support as you go through your experience with breast cancer, but
  you don’t want to go to live support groups or get online and do “techie stuff” to join support forums…
• You tend to read self-help books and like discovering how you can be a better and better version of yourself…
• You want something to curl up with in bed or on the couch that makes you feel understood and inspired. ..
• You’re sick of beating yourself up for having breast cancer and you want to refocus your energy on having a good life…
• You want someone REAL to relate to who understands what you’re going through…

But I Must Warn You…

While many women with breast cancer have found this book comforting and supportive, it’s certainly not for everyone.  And there are some things you definitely won’t find in this book.

So please read this section carefully…

• If you’re actually looking for a more medically-oriented book that talks about various treatment choices, health insurance premiums, and which alternative treatments are worth exploring, you won’t find those things in this book either.
• If you tend to think very logically about your health and aren’t interested in spirituality or what you may be able to learn from your experience with breast cancer, you probably won’t enjoy this book.
• If the words God, Spirit, affirmations, meditation, and visualizations make you uncomfortable, please don’t get this book because I do talk about them in Bright Side of The Road.
• If you want to read a book where someone is giving you instructions for what you should be doing, this book isn’t for you. I share my own experiences in this book so that you can find yourself amidst my story and make your own decisions.

(Click here to find out how to order, or please continue reading…)

Oh Yeah, I Want To Make Sure You Know About These Too…

In addition to being able to find yourself amidst the pages of the book as I share my own journey, I’ve also included some helpful resources:

• 28 books you may find helpful on your journey – including topics on visualization, affirmations, cancer, spirituality, living a full life, and healing art. These are all books that I have read and found helpful on my path.
• 6 of my favorite websites where you can get support and connect with other women. Some are specifically geared toward women with breast cancer. Others are comfort-oriented and will help you feel loved and safe.
• 5 audio programs you can listen to on CD or put on your iPod to get you through your treatments or just curl up in bed with the covers up to your neck and close your eyes. These audio programs will fill your spirit with love and positivity that will help get you through the day.
• 6 things most women with breast cancer hate to experience from their friends and caregivers. Share this list with your loved ones so they will know ahead of time what they can try to avoid as they accompany you on your journey.
• 15 practical things you can share with your caregivers to give them some ideas of how they can support you and help you feel loved.
• Access to the Guided Meditation I used to help me feel calm, centered, and loved each time I went into the hospital for a procedure or surgery. On page 199 of the book, you’ll find a special website address that you can use to listen to this guided meditation yourself.

I’ve done my best to include resources in this book that will enhance your spiritual journey with breast cancer and make you more comfortable along the way.

But Aren’t There Already Tons of Other Books Out There About Cancer?

Absolutely. There are oodles of books out there about cancer. Some are even written by survivors. Funny books. Sad books. Heroic books.

But in my research when I was going through my own journey with breast cancer – and in my research since then – I found that when it comes to books that address breast cancer as a spiritual journey, the list is extremely short.

I kept the original words from my journals as intact as possible which gives the book an incredibly REAL feeling – like you’re right there going through it with me – and that I’m right there with you as you’re going through your own experiences.

Many women who have written books about breast cancer write their books AFTER they’ve come out on the other side of the experience…

Bright Side of the Road is my firsthand account of what it was like during my entire journey with breast cancer – starting with the phone call from the nurse and ending three months after my last radiation treatment.

You don’t have to go through this journey with breast cancer alone. I’ve made the Trip and survived it, and with this book I’m extending my hand and my heart out to you so that you feel loved and supported.

This book is captivating and engaging.  Anne Marie has a tone and style that supports, inspires, and educates.

— Sudha Carolyn Lundeen, Breast Cancer Survivor & Registered Nurse

Are You Ready To Start Exploring Your Own Spiritual Journey With Breast Cancer?

If you’re nodding your head and saying “yes,” then I’m glad!

Even though you didn’t ask for it, and you’d rather it not be there…

The truth is that there IS some cancer in your body and you’re working on getting it out. These are the facts.

I’m not going to insult your intelligence and intuition and tell you that the path toward being cancer-free is going to be easy. No way!

Sometimes it’s downright depressing, extremely difficult, and frustrating beyond measure.

But since you know the value of learning from the experiences of others, and appreciate hearing how others have made it through things that you’re currently struggling with…

I’m here to hold your hand and let you know that you CAN make it through this.

You are not alone.

And you can absolutely come out on the other side of your breast cancer with a deeper

connection to The Divine while also keeping your sanity and serenity intact.

As you read The Bright Side of the Road, I’ll be your companion on your spiritual journey through breast cancer.

Anne Marie’s “Bright Side” experience isn’t about skipping through trials without pain or being ignorant of what’s right in front of her. No whistling in the dark, pretending not to be afraid when she actually is. The things I love most about the book are the honesty and openness that she expresses as she shares her story. This book is REAL – which is my highest praise.

— Karen Caterson

Here’s How To Order

I feel truly blessed to be making this book available to you. I put my heart and soul into it, and even now that I’m 8 years cancer-free, I find inspiration and courage for myself whenever I re-read it.

It fills my heart with joy knowing that you’re about to hold this book in your hands because I believe it will help to alleviate the feeling of aloneness and uncertainty you may be experiencing on your own breast cancer journey.

For your convenience, there are two options for ordering. Use the grid to select the ordering option that works best for you…

Included…	Amazon	This Website
Bright Side of The Road	$14.95	$14.95
Laminated Affirmations Bookmark	—	FREE
Guided Meditation MP3	—	FREE
Shipping (within US)	$3.99	FREE
TOTAL	$18.94	Just $14.95
	Buy on Amazon	Order now

Reading Bright Side of the Road was like being inside the mind and body of every one of my breast cancer patients. I finally understand what the experience is like from the patient’s point of view.

— Dr. Stephen Karp, Breast Cancer Surgeon, Lahey Clinic, Burlington Massachusetts

The Community Angel Guarantee

My intuition tells me that if you’re craving a deeper connection as you’re going through the journey with breast cancer, you’re going to love this book.

But if, in good faith, you purchase the book here on my website and you discover that Bright Side of The Road isn’t what you were looking for, please let me know within 30 days and I’ll promptly refund your $14.95.

No hard feelings. You don’t even have to send the book back to me.

Simply be a Community Angel and pass the book along to someone you think may benefit from reading it.

You can donate it to a library. You can give it to a friend with breast cancer, or someone you know with a relative going through breast cancer. You can even find a breast cancer support group to give it to. In this way, the message of finding the spiritual journey through breast cancer can be passed on to those who need it most.

The Most Important Thing…

While there are some things that we all go through as women with breast cancer, (doctor’s appointments, fears, sadness, anger, etc.) there’s still a lot of room for unique experiences and perspectives.

If you know you need some additional support to get you through your journey with breast cancer and this book doesn’t seem like it’s right for you…

Please keep looking for the kind of help, support, and resources that will satisfy that need inside of you. Don’t give up.

I care too much about you to try to convince you that you should read this book even if it’s not resonating with you. So whatever you do, find the help that will best support you. Keep reaching out.

You’re worth it.

And if this book seems like it’s going to give you the kind of support, affirmation, and deeper connection to yourself and The Divine that you’re looking for, I welcome you into the story of my life – because that’s where you’re going to find yourself also.

With respect and wishes for peace and health,

Anne Marie Bennett

Click here to read more testimonials praising Bright Side of the Road…

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