This Is About Life
An Intimate Story of Cancer From the Turn of the Century to Covid 19
by Leslie Elizabeth King

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“I cannot live if I am trying to kill part of myself.” Over the course of 20 years, Leslie King survived breast cancer, endometrial cancer, and breast cancer again. In her selected journals, she documents the realities of cancer treatment within Canada’s medical system, her efforts to keep afloat in her northern Manitoba home, during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario, and the intersection of faith and flesh in periods of profound struggle. As a United Church minister, Leslie draws strength from her connection with God, yet her story holds comfort and wisdom for anyone seeking hope in dark times. Embracing the mystery of consciousness while demystifying the impacts of cancer treatment, This Is About Life is a manifesto for agency and self-love in the face of difficult realities.

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"This book was very easy to read. The chronological order made it possible to follow the author in a way that helped me identify with her and her changing experiences." —Sheila Mitchell, Fenelon Falls, ON. "Leslie King's story opens the reader's eyes and senses to the reality of receiving a cancer diagnosis, and the scope of its impact on the patient. Her book reveals the true range of emotions that washed over her, not just on hearing the diagnosis, but the emotional roller-coaster ride that starts before the diagnosis and only ends when the oncologist confirms that she is now cancer free. It is a compelling read, full of intense personal thoughts, feelings and fears. For some readers it might be a useful tool to help with preparing for the potential of a similar life situation. For others, it might be a shock . . . or wake up call . . . to learn what can go through the mind of a person dealing with cancer." —David Savournin, Bobcaygeon

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Leslie King was ordained as a Minister of Word, Sacrament, and Pastoral Care in The United Church of Canada in 1980. She holds a BA in Anthropology from Trent University and a Master of Divinity from Emmanuel College of Victoria University under the University of Toronto. As a minister, Leslie worked at the Six Nations Reserve, Mississaugas of New Credit Reserve in Ontario, and Swan Lake First Nation Reserve in southern Manitoba. She spent 22 years in active ministry in Thompson, Manitoba, which included much involvement with medical systems as an advocate for people who were often not taken seriously because of their race or gender. There have been seven different kinds of cancer in her family, including her own three. Now cancer-free, Leslie lives in Bobcaygeon, Ontario with her 14-year-old cat, Archie.

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Contributors

Author

Leslie Elizabeth King

Editor

Nancy Thurston