Every time I look out my window at the Pacific Ocean, I am reminded of the incredible breadth and depth of power that exists on this earth. Throughout Karen’s and Eric’s illnesses, I made a point of swimming every morning, as it helped calm the hurricane of thoughts and emotions raging inside me. By helping manage my grief, swimming allowed me to be fully present for my wife and son during the long, dark days.

I still swim every day and surf whenever possible. I also coach my sons’ baseball team. When they won the District 39 championship last year, the joy on their faces was one of the most healing, awe-inspiring moments I’ve ever experienced!

Whether you have cancer, or are helping a loved one with the disease and its many side effects, I encourage you to make healing a top priority. Exercise daily, spend time with healthy, happy, positive people, watch funny movies, play with your dog, ride a horse, eat organic food and learn about herbs, vitamins and minerals. Find a good therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist. Don’t be afraid to ask about taking anti-depressants. They’ve helped millions of people and saved thousands of lives.

Even now, four years after Karen left us, I’m still healing. I am continually amazed at the gifted and talented people that have come into my life. Some have even changed my long-held beliefs about the power of the human mind. If you’re interested in learning more about alternative therapies, the, American Cancer Society has a list of healing modalities that you may find intriguing and helpful. Trust your instinct — it will lead you where you need to go.

Most of all, I recommend spending as much time as possible near a natural body of water — lakes, rivers, ponds or the ocean. Swim in the waves, walk in the surf or just sit near the edge of the water and quiet your mind. Your body will absorb the healing energy of the water and respond in kind.

For me, water is a constant reminder of God’s presence in my life. Throughout Karen’s and Eric’s illnesses, my faith revealed a deep wellspring of energy and courage that I never knew existed within me. Karen’s faith helped sustain her throughout her grief, pain and suffering. As I build the Peterson Family Foundation, God provides daily hope and guidance. Through my trust in Him, I know I’m on the right path.