By all standards of success, James Templeton seemed to have it all. He was a highly successful businessman, had a beautiful wife and daughter, and, only in his early thirties, had his whole life in front of him. To avoid the same fate as his father and grandfather, who both died of heart attacks at a young age, James became an avid runner—a passion that he believed helped him stay fit and healthy. Imagine his shock when, during a routine physical, his doctor noticed a mole on his body that turned out to be a melanoma—a dangerous form of skin cancer. The mole was removed immediately and James, who was diligent in his follow-up exams, appeared to be cancer-free—but only for a short while. When the cancer reappeared and had spread, on the advice of his doctor, James followed the conventional medical protocol, which included surgery and chemotherapy. He was also involved in a clinical trial. When he learned that the treatments weren’t working, James was obviously devastated. He had reached a new low point in his life, and as he lay in the hospital bed, he prayed fervently for help. As if by some miracle, help came to James in the form of three different visitors who would change the course of his life—and help direct him on a path back to health.

I Used to Have Cancer is James Templeton’s memoir—an inspiring look back at his unique journey in overcoming stage 4 melanoma. James takes you with him on a trip crisscrossing America, during which he shares the various natural approaches he followed to battle his cancer—from diet and supplements to meditation and lifestyle adjustments. As his journey continued, you will see first-hand how James’ definition of success changed from making money to seeing the next sunrise. And how he continues finding success by reaching out to others to share the lessons he has learned.

While this book largely focuses on the various methods James used to overcome his own cancer, it is also an inspiring story of not giving up when all other avenues of conventional medicine fail. It is about taking control of your life and finding a way back from the brink of death. It is about being able to tell your friends, “I used to have cancer.”

A fifth generation Texan, James Templeton tapped into his fighting spirit and became an over 30-year cancer survivor who healed himself from a terminal diagnosis with the use of alternative medicine and healing modalities. As the visionary founder of Uni Key Health Systems and Templeton Wellness Foundation, James has since utilized his wisdom and experience to helping others achieve optimum health and wellness. He is also the co-author of Your Body Knows Best.  Now a resident of the Pacific Northwest, James dedicates much of his time to living a healthy lifestyle and inspiring others to do the same. He also enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with family.

Contents

Acknowledgments, vii

Foreword, xi

1. Living the American Dream, 1

2. The Words No One Wants to Hear, 11

3. Three Knocks at My Door, 23

4. Two O’Clock in the Morning, 29

5. Not All Who Wander Are Lost, 39

6. Guess What Came to Dinner?, 59

7. Meeting the Teacher’s Teacher, 71

8. The Vitamin C Connection, 81

9. The Power of a Positive Mindset, 93

10. Fight Like Your Life Depends Upon It, 101

11. If I Had It to Do All Over Again, 121

12. Putting It All Together, 155

Epilogue. My Life Today, 161

Resources, 165

References, 175

"If you are in need of courage, read this book . . . In one of the most literate and 'healthy' books about cancer's effects on the body and the spirit, James [Templeton] takes us on his journey back to health; and in doing so, serves as an inspiration for not only coping with disease but also with all of life's apparent obstacles . . . the details are plentiful—alternative approaches to treatment that include a comprehensive list of healthy foods, supplements, lifestyle aids for the home that discourage contamination, macrobiotics, compatible medical professionals and clinics, and even restaurants friendly to good health . . . [I Used to Have Cancer] is an excellent resource for healthy choices, as well as a book that provides a light of inspiration for everyone—no matter the conflict. Highly recommended."

"Reading this memoir is like reading an engaging letter from a friend you care deeply about. You can't help but be drawn into the life-and-death struggle of author James Templeton . . . In addition to learning about various healing modalities, readers interested in optimal wellness will find a resources section that suggests books, diagnostic tests, foods, supplements, and lifestyle aids."

"Inspired and inspiring, potentially life changing and life saving . . . especially commended to the attention of anyone having to deal with cancer within themselves or a loved one."

“James Templeton is the real deal.  Learn from his miracle mindset and fight for your life.”
—Mark Hyman, MD, #1 New York Times bestselling author

"My friend James is a perfect example of the life changing power of truly healing foods. I highly recommend you read his inspiring story and learn how you too can tap into the restorative properties of the right foods and supplements."
—Anthony William, The Medical Medium, #1 New York Times bestselling author

"I have had the distinct privilege of knowing James for many years. His fight was unprecedented so many years ago, yet he rolled up his sleeves and went to work. Armed with 'change' and 'courage,' James set out to defeat his cancer. This book represents his incredible victory.“

—Doug Kaufmann, Host, Know the Cause nationally syndicated TV show

"James Templeton, whom I know personally, is a determined and courageous man who overcame Stage 4 Melanoma Cancer more than 30 years ago using predominantly natural means. His story and other cancer survivor stories on his website will give hope to those with cancer who have been told by conventional doctors that there is no hope. I urge the readers of his website who have cancer to follow the examples of these cancer survivors and to become not only a survivor, but a thriver like James."

—William Lee Cowden, MD, MD(H) Chairman of the Scientific Board