Podcast Summary: I AM HealingStrong – Episode 110: Diagnosis to Overcoming Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma | Benjamin Canales

Introduction

In Episode 110 of the I AM HealingStrong podcast, host Jim Mann engages in a profound conversation with Benjamin Canalis, a resilient survivor of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. This episode delves deep into Benjamin's personal journey from diagnosis to recovery, highlighting his holistic approach to healing, the challenges he faced, and his unwavering commitment to helping others through the Healing Strong community.

Ben Canalis: Background and Early Life

Benjamin Canalis begins by sharing his roots and upbringing. Born in New York to a Puerto Rican father who served in the military, Ben's family relocated to Tacoma, Washington, where he grew up alongside his sister. His father’s career as an airplane mechanic with Boeing influenced their move, providing the family with stability and opportunities. Ben fondly recalls a blessed childhood, emphasizing the strong work ethic and supportive environment fostered by his parents.

The Diagnosis: A Life-Altering Moment

Ben recounts his unexpected diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in 2016. Initially noticing a persistent lump in his pelvic area, he visited his doctor who, despite initially dismissing his concerns, recommended a biopsy after a blood test came back negative for T-cells. Ben shares:

“I was very fortunate and blessed. ... I didn't know I was going to come through it, but I just knew that there are different paths and this is the path that made the most sense to me.”
— Benjamin Canalis [04:44]

This pivotal moment marked the beginning of his journey towards alternative healing methods, driven by extensive research and a desire to explore options beyond conventional treatment.

Choosing an Alternative Healing Path

Ben's proactive approach to his health involved five years of dedicated research. He delved into various natural therapies and became acquainted with influential figures like Chris Warwick and Rick Simpson, focusing on nutrient-dense diets, CBD oil, and herbal remedies. He explains:

“I had a lot of empathy for the folks that I meet at Healing Strong... they realize that this isn't exactly working out the way I thought it was going to work out.”
— Benjamin Canalis [04:44]

Despite encountering skepticism from traditional medical professionals, Ben remained steadfast in his conviction to pursue natural healing, which he felt was more aligned with his understanding and comfort.

Interactions with Conventional Medicine

Ben shares a challenging encounter with his oncologist who was dismissive of his interest in alternative treatments:

“She just whipped her chair around like an angry teacher... she goes, 'Ben, you need to understand that it's not a question of whether you're going to do chemo or radiation. The only question is, is whether you're going to do a lot or a little.'”
— Benjamin Canalis [09:12]

Frustrated by the limited openness to alternative methods, Ben sought out naturopathic clinics, where he found practitioners who supported his holistic approach. This shift was crucial in his healing process, allowing him to focus on underlying issues like gut health and inflammation.

Healing Strong Group: Building a Community of Support

Driven by his experiences, Ben founded a Healing Strong group in Coeur d’Alene four years ago. The group serves as a sanctuary for individuals seeking holistic support in their cancer journey. Ben emphasizes the importance of community and shared knowledge:

“The power comes from by learning about your body, learning about health, and learning about different protocols. That knowledge is what gives you power to step through any type of autoimmune...”
— Benjamin Canalis [22:06]

The group typically consists of 8-12 members, fostering intimate and meaningful connections. Ben highlights success stories, such as a group meeting that swelled to 30 participants, illustrating the profound impact of shared healing and mutual support.

Holistic Healing Practices: Nutrition, Detoxification, and Exercise

Ben’s recovery centered around fundamental principles of health:

1. Nutrition: Emphasizing nutrient-dense foods, probiotics, and specific items like pineapple for gut health.

   “I focused on nutrient-dense food, probiotics... Once a day I'd have a smoothie and it was just nothing but green.”
   — Benjamin Canalis [19:43]

2. Detoxification: Engaging in detox protocols inspired by Chris Warwick and working with practitioners like Dirk Yao to cleanse his system.

   “Dirk Yao was my game changer as far as the detoxification.”
   — Benjamin Canalis [19:43]

3. Exercise: Incorporating manageable physical activities such as hot yoga, weightlifting, jogging, and golfing to maintain bodily balance without overexertion.

   “I started out with hot yoga... then pushed back to playing nine holes of golf a few times a week.”
   — Benjamin Canalis [19:43]

These practices not only supported his physical healing but also fostered mental and emotional resilience.

Current Health and Ongoing Commitment

Today, Ben is in remission, maintaining his health through his established routines. He underscores the importance of continual learning and adaptation:

“I always say no lumps or bumps, done some blood tests to make sure things are good. But overall, just try to lead that lifestyle of just doing the solid basics.”
— Benjamin Canalis [21:16]

His holistic lifestyle not only keeps him healthy but also empowers him to assist others in their healing journeys through the Healing Strong community.

Conclusion: Empowering Others Through Knowledge and Support

Ben Canalis’s story is a testament to the power of knowledge, resilience, and community in overcoming life's most daunting challenges. His dedication to holistic healing and his role in Healing Strong exemplify how personal experiences can transform into avenues for helping others find hope and strength. As Ben aptly puts it:

“Knowledge is what gives you power to step through any type of autoimmune... if you run into a stumbling block, you'll know how to get around it.”
— Benjamin Canalis [22:06]

Key Takeaways:

• Proactive Research: Five years of dedicated research empowered Ben to make informed decisions about his health.
• Holistic Approach: Focusing on gut health, nutrition, detoxification, and tailored exercise regimes.
• Community Support: Founding the Healing Strong group to provide a supportive environment for others facing similar challenges.
• Resilience and Empowerment: Ben’s journey underscores the importance of resilience, continual learning, and the power of shared experiences in healing.

For those seeking support or interested in joining Ben’s Healing Strong group, he encourages reaching out via email at info@healingstrongcda.org. Ben’s inspiring journey offers hope and practical strategies for anyone navigating their own path to health and healing.