Once receiving a cancer diagnosis, some will look for ways to cope with the news and the treatment process in order to stay positive. Studies have shown that many people turn to faith and prayer during cancer treatment, but for practicing Scientologists such as Kelly Preston and John Travolta, there’s speculation whether standard treatment is encouraged or allowed.
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. However, in some religions such as Scientology, it’s unclear whether standard treatment methods like hospital visits and taking medication are handled.
Read More“Scientologists seek conventional medical treatment for medical conditions,” the church said in their statement. “Scientologists use prescription drugs when physically ill and also rely on the advice and treatment of medical doctors. The Church does not involve itself in the diagnosis or classification of any medical condition.”
However, actress Leah Remini, a former Scientologist, has cast doubt on those claims. She’s stated that Scientology leaders will prevent followers from seeking professional medical help and instead focus on their own technology and prayer to try to “cure” illnesses.
Dr. Zuri Murrell says many cancer patients turn to prayer during cancer treatment
Turning To Faith And Prayers During Cancer Treatment
In dozens of conversations with SurvivorNet, cancer survivors have said that their faith helped them remain positive during cancer treatment and cope with the diagnosis.
The benefits of faith during cancer treatment can come in different forms, and in the case of ovarian cancer survivor Monica Layton, her church congregation served as the perfect support system during one of the most difficult moments of her life. Not only did church members send Layton flowers, cards, a prayer blanket, and constant messages that they were praying for her, but her pastor visited her on the day of her ovarian cancer surgery and every day during her recovery.
Related: Finding Support Through Her Church Ovarian Cancer Survivor Robyn Smith's Story
“During my first round of chemo and everything, I was able to still go to church every week and sing in the choir,” Layton says. “The singing in the choir was a key part of my mental health. It really helped. So we have rehearsal once a week, and then Sunday services. So that was twice a week that I was with those people who were a major part of my support. They were just so kind and supportive and always asking how I was doing.”
Ovarian cancer survivor Monica Layton says her church was key in supporting her through treatment
For some people, simply praying at times when you feel lost or scared can help ease your mind. This was the case for breast cancer survivor Sharonda Vincent. Vincent discovered a lump in her left breast the day before her thirtieth birthday, with just over a month to go until her wedding, and underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone replacement for treatment.
Battling cancer can certainly wear on someone’s physical and mental health, and experiencing feelings such as shame, anger, sadness, and fear are completely normal and warranted. Once hearing she had been diagnosed with breast cancer, Vincent turned to prayer as a way to assure herself she’d be fine.
Related: 'Family, Friends & Faith': Ovarian Cancer Survivor Diana Faison Keeps it Positive
“I think I cried for about maybe the first month or so,” Vincent said. “It was hard for me. I did feel as if I was being punished. One night I was just laying there in bed, and I had a talk with God. I knew that if I just put my faith and trust in God, that I would be OK.”
Breast cancer survivor Sharonda Vincent said talking to God helped her cope with her diagnosis
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