The Transformative Power of the Radical Remission: 10 Healing Factors

How Simple Shifts Can Ignite Profound Healing

By Karla Mans Giroux, Radical Remission Co-Director & Radical Remission Survivor/Thriver

When confronted with a life-threatening diagnosis, the world can narrow to a pinpoint: every thought, every breath, every hope becomes tethered to the struggle for survival. But within the landscape of fear and uncertainty, stories emerge—stories of individuals who defy all odds, heal in unexpected ways, and challenge the boundaries of what medicine believes possible. These stories, often labeled as “radical remissions,” have intrigued researchers and inspired patients around the globe.

At the centre of this transformative movement is Dr. Kelly A. Turner, who, through her extensive research and her bestselling book “Radical Remission,” distilled the common threads from over 1500 cases of remarkable healing. What she discovered was powerful: people who experienced radical remissions, often after exhausting conventional treatments, had changed their lives in profound yet accessible ways. Rather than relying on a single miracle cure, they embraced a set of healing factors—ten, to be precise—that together formed a powerful tapestry of hope and renewal.

I’ll share a little on each of the Radical Remission 10 healing factors, reflect on how they work together, and show how their collective strength can make a difference for anyone facing a health challenge—or anyone simply seeking greater vitality and meaning in life. I’ll also share a little about my own radical remission from stage 4 breast cancer.

My Story

My personal experience shows that an integrative approach can be very effective. Beyond following my oncologist’s prescribed medication, I sought additional strategies to improve my long-term health outcomes. During my initial cancer diagnosis, I did not make any lifestyle changes; however, after receiving a stage 4 diagnosis, I decided further changes were imperative. My life depended on it in fact!

I began implementing lifestyle changes alongside medical treatment. I consulted a cancer coach, altered my diet, examined emotional factors, and assessed areas in need of change to reduce the likelihood of supporting cancer growth.

Upon discovering the book Radical Remission, I recognized similarities between its recommended healing factors and many of the changes I had already put into practice, which encouraged me to adopt the remaining factors.

I saw the results quickly. I was in a stable state with the 3 month follow up scan and remained stable for 1-1/2 years. So, when a liver tumor showed up, I didn’t panic (I wasn’t thrilled but I didn’t panic). I switched my care to an integrative oncologist and formed a strong partnership for my healing journey. With that partnership, and full support of a mind-body-spirit approach, that liver tumour was fully resolved in six months….and I’ve been stable/no evidence of disease (NED) since December 2016.

So, what are these Radical Remission lifestyle factors that can have a significant impact?

The Radical Remission Factors

Dr. Turner’s research revealed that while every journey is unique, those who had achieved radical remissions consistently practiced the following ten healing factors:

• Radically changing your diet
• Taking control of your health
• Following your intuition
• Using herbs and supplements
• Releasing suppressed emotions
• Increasing positive emotions
• Embracing social support
• Deepening your spiritual connection
• Having strong reasons for living
• Engaging in regular physical activity

Let’s delve into each factor, uncovering both the science and the stories behind their healing power.

Radically Changing Your Diet

It begins at the table. Many radical remission survivors report shifting towards a plant-based, whole foods diet, eliminating processed foods, reducing sugar, and, in some cases, adopting anti-inflammatory nutritional plans. What’s striking is not just the nutritional value, but the act of consciously choosing what to nourish the body with—a daily reaffirmation of hope and self-care. This shift isn’t about deprivation; it’s about abundance: colourful vegetables, herbs, and pure water form the foundation of a new relationship with food and life.

Taking Control of Your Health

Radical Remission survivors often move from passive recipients of care to empowered participants in their healing. They become researchers, advocates, and decision-makers, seeking second opinions, asking questions, and collaborating with their healthcare providers. This sense of agency can be transformative, reducing feelings of helplessness and igniting the body’s own healing response.

Following Your Intuition

The quiet wisdom of intuition is often undervalued in a world driven by data. Yet, in case after case, people describe trusting their “gut feelings” about treatments, practitioners, and lifestyle choices. Listening to one’s inner voice can lead to unexpected solutions and a greater alignment between body, mind, and spirit.

Using Herbs and Supplements

Though not a substitute for conventional medicine, many radical remission survivors incorporate carefully chosen herbs, vitamins, and minerals into their routines. This may involve consulting with integrative practitioners to ensure safety and efficacy. The intention is not to replace, but to complement and support the body’s healing processes.

Releasing Suppressed Emotions

Emotional healing can be as critical as physical healing. Many radical remission stories include cathartic moments of release—a long-held grief, a buried anger, or a silent fear brought into the light. Techniques such as therapy, journaling, and energy work can help to unblock these emotional reservoirs, freeing energy for healing.

Increasing Positive Emotions

Joy, gratitude, and love are more than fleeting feelings. Research shows that positive emotions can boost immune function, lower stress hormones, and improve overall well-being. Radical Remission survivors intentionally cultivate positivity, whether through laughter, meditation, music, or acts of kindness.

Embracing Social Support

We heal best when we do not heal alone. From family and friends to faith communities and support groups, the presence of a caring network provides emotional sustenance and practical help. The shared journey lightens the burden and multiplies the hope.

Deepening Your Spiritual Connection

For many, radical remission is a spiritual journey. This does not prescribe a specific religion; rather, it reflects a deepening sense of connection—to self, to others, to a higher power, or to nature itself. Practices such as prayer, meditation, or mindful walks in the woods can foster a sense of peace and purpose, even in the face of uncertainty.

Having Strong Reasons for Living

What calls you forward? Radical remission survivors often articulate a clear, passionate purpose—whether it’s seeing a child grow up, finishing a creative project, or simply savouring another sunrise. This sense of meaning fuels resilience and galvanises the will to heal.

Engaging in Regular Physical Activity

Movement is medicine. Whether it’s gentle yoga, daily walks, dancing, or strength training, physical activity helps the body detoxify, boosts mood, and reinvigorates the spirit. The key is consistency and joy—not perfection or intensity.

Interweaving the Factors: The Power of Synergy

While each of these healing factors is potent on their own, their true power lies in combination. When an individual begins to heal not only the body but also the mind, emotions, and spirit, a profound shift can occur. These lifestyle changes do not guarantee a cure, but they can open doors to new possibilities, support conventional treatments, and foster a greater sense of control and peace.

Real Stories, Real Hope

Perhaps the most compelling evidence for the Radical Remission 10 healing factors comes from the voices of those who have lived them. Story after story describes people who, when given little hope, choose to live differently—not just to survive, but to thrive. Their journeys are varied, but the common thread is the willingness to look beyond the conventional, to embrace the unknown, and to believe in the possibility of healing.

Making a Difference—For Everyone

You do not have to wait for a diagnosis to benefit from the Radical Remission healing factors. These practices are accessible, holistic, and rooted in both science and timeless wisdom. Whether you are facing illness, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking to live with greater vitality, the 10 healing factors offer a map for transformation.

Start with one step, one shift. Choose a vibrant salad for lunch. Reach out to a friend for support. Pause for a moment of gratitude. Listen deeply, to what your intuition is saying. One by one, these changes can ripple outward, creating not only the possibility of radical remission, but also the promise of radical living.

I hope that you will find inspiration in the stories, strength in these practices, and the courage to change—no matter where you are on the path.

In peace, love and health,

Karla Mans Giroux, NBHWC

Visit www.RadicalRemission.com to find events, coaches, share your inspiring story, and more.