This article explores the transformative journey of Suzanne Kent, detailing her battle with cancer and her subsequent embrace of a plant-based lifestyle. Her story underscores the potential impact of dietary choices on health and well-being.
The Initial Shock: A Cancer Diagnosis
Suzanne Kent's life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with cancer. While pregnant with her sixth child, she discovered a lump in her breast. Initially, there was little concern, as she didn't believe she had any of the risk factors associated with the disease. However, a biopsy revealed the presence of 13 cancerous lymph nodes.
The Doctor's Words: Too Many Pizzas
When the Kents sought answers from Suzanne's oncologist, Dr. Glasby, about the cause of her cancer, his response was direct: "too many pizzas," implying excessive fat consumption. This statement prompted Kent Gardiner, Suzanne's husband, to reflect on their eating habits. Looking at their usual pork chop meal, he realized they were consuming the same foods that might have contributed to the problem. This realization sparked a desire for change.
Exploring Alternatives: The Gerson Diet
After undergoing a bone marrow transplant at UCLA and completing conventional cancer therapy, Suzanne became interested in the Gerson diet. They invited a Gerson diet expert into their home to learn about the diet and prepare meals, including carrot juice and green drinks. However, the diet was so intense that Suzanne's eyes turned orange.
Discovering Dr. John McDougall's Teachings
Kent Gardiner continued his research and discovered the teachings of Dr. John McDougall through tapes. Dr. McDougall's observations in Hawaii resonated with Kent. He noted that people in cities who consumed a typical American diet were more prone to diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. In contrast, native Hawaiians in rural areas who ate starches and vegetables and maintained an active lifestyle lived longer and healthier lives.
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Embracing a Plant-Based Lifestyle
Inspired by Dr. McDougall's teachings, Kent decided to make a significant change. He started preparing vegetable soups, stir-fries, and salads. The family began incorporating smoothies, green drinks, and veggie-burgers into their diet. Initially, they eliminated meat, and later, they removed milk and cheese. Over time, their tastes changed, and they adapted to the new way of eating.
Becoming a Vegan
Kent Gardiner embraced a vegan lifestyle, abstaining from all animal products and focusing on consuming as many vegetables as possible each day. His day begins with a bowl of oatmeal with fruit or raisins. He firmly believes that vegetables, oatmeal, exercise, positive thinking, and proper weight control are essential for health and happiness.
The Importance of Early Education
Kent expresses a desire to have learned about plant-based eating earlier in life. He observes many people around him suffering from cancer, diabetes, and heart disease due to the consumption of animal products and processed foods.
The Word of Wisdom
Kent also references the Word of Wisdom, suggesting that following its principles can extend lives or make them more productive.
A Life Transformed
At 68 years old, Kent Gardiner remains active, happy, and full of energy. He attributes his well-being to his plant-based lifestyle. He lives in Eagle Mountain with his wife, Suzanne, and is retired from the UCLA Lab School as a demonstration teacher.
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Lessons Learned from an Episode of "Taxi"
In an episode of "Taxi" titled "Blind Date," Alex goes on a blind date with Angela, a woman he finds charming over the phone. However, upon meeting her, he discovers she is overweight and is initially turned off by her appearance. The date becomes uncomfortable as Angela, played by Suzanne Kent, uses hurtful words to push Alex away, while he persists in staying. Ultimately, Alex admits to Elaine that he was superficial and going through the motions because he wanted to see himself as a good person. He offers to be Angela's friend if she stops being hostile, and she breaks down in tears, asking for a hug.
Overcoming Challenges
The episode highlighted challenges related to loneliness and superficiality. The character Angela, played by Suzanne Kent, grappled with societal pressures and internalized pain.
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