‘The Storm Is Not Over:’ ‘Real Housewives’ Star Mia Thornton On Frightening Test Results, Cancer Diagnosis

Thornton, an entrepreneur and neuromuscular massage therapist who got her start as a businesswoman in Charlotte, NC, has still not received an official diagnosis, but the news that her scans were concerning was shocking for her and her loved-ones: "You can only imagine the overwhelming amount of emotion [husband Gordon Thornton] and I endured trying to figure out why." Even so, Thornton has maintained a remarkable sense of optimism, driven by the power of her faith.

“I’ve been in and out of visits to specialists every day and the storm is not over but this experience is changing me,” Thornton explained. “I know God has a plan and I know we are often challenged to remain humbled that tomorrow is not promised and that our days on this earth are numbered," she said. "Even with such terrible news, I felt an extreme amount of peace and energy instilled that allowed me to remain strong."

'Faith, Family, and Friends' Helped Beverly Reeves Get Through Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Thornton's post was met with an outpouring of support from fans. She also received caring messages from a number of former Real Housewives stars. "You are in my heart & my prayers. Sending lots of love & healing energy to you beautiful," Cynthia Bailey wrote. "Prayers beautiful," Tamra Judge said.

Thornton's caption emphasized her trust in God, and she ended with a powerful piece of advice for her followers: "A message from my heart. A gentle reminder to Live, Love & Forgive as if today was your last."

 

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The Power of Faith in Fighting Cancer

During a cancer fight, it's important to find ways to cope with the complex web of feelings you may be experiencing.

In fact, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 69% of cancer patients say they rely on their faith to get them through cancer treatment and pray for their health.

For many people, turning to faith has helped them keep their spirits high and continue fighting through cancer. This was the case for ovarian cancer survivor Monica Layton, whose church congregation helped her both spiritually and physically as she battled cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic and then went through recovery.

"My Faith Has Been Very Important" The Story of Louisville Ovarian Cancer Survivor Monica Layton

"[I've] gone to the same church for a long time, so it's like another family that really supports me," Layton told SurvivorNet in a previous interview. "We're Episcopalian, and when I was having surgery my priest came to the hospital and stayed and prayed with my family the whole timeand it was a long surgery. And then he came back to the hospital every day to pray with me."

In addition to praying for her, Layton's church also sent gifts of encouragement such as flowers, cards, a prayer blanket, and constant visits. No matter where she was, Layton constantly felt supported by the people in her church. "They were so kind. I think my faith has been very important, crucial for me. Just the prayer really helps, I think," Layton said.

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