A New Chapter: How Cancer Changed My Life for the Better - Pius Dawson

A New Chapter: How Cancer Changed My Life for the Better

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I'm often asked what has changed in my diet and outlook since being diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer, which has spread to my bones.

It was June 7th when my urologist gave me the news after a biopsy confirmed an aggressive form of cancer. That date will forever be etched in my memory not just because of the diagnosis, but because it marked the start of a complete transformation in my life. It changed everything for me and for my wife, who became my rock, researcher, and partner in every change that followed. Her support made the road ahead so much easier to navigate.

A Shift in Outlook

My entire perspective changed. Suddenly, the small things I used to overlook became moments of gratitude. I started noticing the beauty in everyday life conversations, quiet mornings, even the air I breathe. I began removing negativity from my surroundings, including social media and certain relationships that no longer served my peace. If you're still on my friends list congratulations you passed the test!

I've also become deliberate about what I allow into my mental and emotional space. Sponsored ads that clutter my feed? Gone. Toxic news cycles? Muted. The focus now is clarity, positivity, and peace.

A New Relationship with Food

Three months ago, my Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) level was 840 yes, that's eight hundred and forty, not 8.40. Today, it's down to 42. For context, normal levels range from 04, so this is truly remarkable progress. I believe this improvement is the direct result of changes in both my diet and outlook on life.

Alcohol and tobacco are long gone they have no place in this new chapter. Food itself has become something entirely different. Everything tastes more vivid, more real. Processed foods are out, and we rarely dine out anymore since it's nearly impossible to find truly healthy options on most menus.

Here's what's in the rotation now:

  • Aged cheddar (make sure it's crumbly Costco carries a great English one!)

  • Free-range eggs

  • Butter from grass-fed cows

  • Protein drinks

  • Nuts and blueberries for snacks I especially enjoy frozen blueberries mixed with nuts

  • Half a kiwi a day

  • A glass of lemon water every morning before anything else

  • One cup of coffee a day, then mostly decaffeinated black tea with half a spoon of honey

  • No sugar completely out

  • Sourdough bread only white, wheat, muffins, and cakes are out

As for proteins:

  • Fish is good, but not the fatty kind. I go for albacore tuna, salmon steaks, and sardines.

  • Red meat only in small quantities usually buffalo (bison) ground or in steaks, as well as grass-fed beef and lamb.

These simple, wholesome foods have become staples reminders that nourishment can be healing when chosen with intention.

Staying Active and Grateful

While the cancer has spread to my femurs, pelvis, spine, and shoulders, I'm deeply grateful that none of my organs have been affected. I can walk and I make sure to do so at least 5,000 steps a day. Staying active keeps both my body and mind in motion.

I make a point of getting out, attending local events, and spending time with friends around the city. These moments of connection remind me that life isn't about what happens to you it's about how you respond to it.

Moving Forward

This journey has taught me that life doesn't stop with a diagnosis it evolves. My health continues to improve, my energy feels renewed, and my gratitude deepens each day.

I look forward to sharing more about this path not as a story of illness, but of renewal, focus, and faith in the power of change.

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A global perspective on real estate, education, and leadership with reflections from a life lived across borders, industries, and challenges. Join Pius Dawson, CIPS Instructor, Global Chair-Elect for Texas REALTORS® (2026), and 2025 CIPS Excellence
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