Finding Light in the Darkness: My Journey Through Cancer and the Healing Power of Creativity

A Journey I Never Expected

In August 2023, I received a diagnosis that changed everything. I had Uterine Serous Carcinoma, a rare and aggressive cancer that disproportionately affects women of colour. In that moment, life as I knew shifted. The future suddenly felt uncertain, and I found myself navigating a landscape I had never imagined—one filled with medical appointments, fear, and profound self-reflection.

Like many who have faced a cancer diagnosis, I felt overwhelmed by emotions I couldn’t quite name. There were moments of fear, grief, and exhaustion. But there were also moments of grace, love, and unexpected discovery. One of those discoveries was the healing power of creativity.

Art Became My Refuge

Before my diagnosis, I had never picked up a paintbrush. Creativity had always been something I admired in others, but not something I thought of as part of my own journey.

And yet, during my recovery, I found myself drawn to painting—almost instinctively. It became a way to express what words could not. Each brushstroke helped me process the emotions that sat heavy in my chest. The colours, the textures, the act of creating—somehow, they all helped me find clarity in the chaos.

I know I’m not alone in this. So many people living with cancer turn to art, music, writing, and other forms of creative expression as a way to make sense of their experience. There is something profoundly healing about creating when life feels unpredictable and beyond our control.

Learning to Walk in the Dark

This is why I wrote Learning to Walk in the Dark. I wanted to offer a safe space for others who are navigating their own dark nights—whether it’s a cancer diagnosis, grief, or any of life’s unexpected hardships. Through words and original artwork, the book blends personal storytelling, creative expression, and coaching prompts to help readers reflect, heal, and find strength in their own journeys.

Cancer is not just a physical battle—it’s an emotional and spiritual one, too. Learning to Walk in the Dark doesn’t promise easy answers, but it does offer companionship. It’s a book that gently invites you to sit with your emotions, explore your own creativity, and discover resilience in places you may not have thought to look.

 How This Book Can Support You

If you are living with cancer or facing one of life’s great challenges, this book is for you.

Here’s how it can help:

• A Space for Reflection: The book includes coaching prompts and guided reflections, helping you process your thoughts and emotions in a way that feels safe and supported.
• The Power of Storytelling: I share my personal journey—the fears, the struggles, and the moments of hope. Sometimes, simply knowing you are not alone can be incredibly healing.
• Creative Expression as Healing: The book encourages you to explore creativity—whether through journaling, painting, or another form of self-expression—as a way to process your experience.
• Resilience and Hope: While darkness is part of life, so too is light. The book offers tools to help you navigate the unknown with courage, self-compassion, and a renewed sense of possibility.

Giving Back

This book is not just about my journey—it’s about supporting others on theirs. That’s why I am donating 5% of the profits from each book sold to Yes to Life, a charity that provides much-needed support to those affected by cancer. Their work in empowering people to take control of their health and well-being is invaluable, and I am honoured to contribute to their mission.

Join Me on This Journey

If you or someone you love is living with cancer, I hope Learning to Walk in the Dark offers you some comfort and guidance. This book is my way of reaching out to say: you are not alone. There is still beauty to be found, even in the darkest moments. And there is still light to walk toward.

How to purchase a copy of the book (will be available to buy on amazon this week)

You can order on Amazon : Learning to Walk in the Dark: Amazon.co.uk: Viv Grant: 9781036907860: Books or find out more on our website: Learning To Walk In The Dark – Integrity Coaching

Viv Grant, Executive Coach, Author and Public Speaker

Viv Grant is an Executive Coach, Author, and Public Speaker known for her deep insights into leadership, vulnerability, and resilience. She is the Director of Integrity Coaching, London’s leading provider of coaching services for Headteachers and Senior School Leaders.