I was at peak fitness when I was diagnosed with cancer - it made me question what the Bible says about my body

Anne Hartslief’s faith that her body was a temple was shattered by an unexpected cancer diagnosis. Here she explains how she began to love herself again. 

I’m a mother of two children, wife and a business owner. I’m goal directed and ambitious. I had openly declared to friends that I was pursuing what I had termed: “next level health”. The robust plan around “next level health” including trauma release exercises, going to a functional fitness class two to three times a week, running at least twice a week as well as stretching and doing yoga. The strength of my physical fitness mirrored the degree of strength I felt in my life. In fact, I would often say to myself: “The stronger I become the stronger I am because of the great I am (Jesus).” 

So my cancer diagnosis on September 16, 2022 following a routine mammogram came in what felt like the prime of my life. I was at my physical and mental peak doing my most purpose-filled professional work in building businesses that matter. I had no idea that a routine screening was about to change my world as I knew it - stage two lobular breast cancer with two tumours. Was all I had invested in and believed about my personal growth my own fabrication?