In October of 2023 while vacationing in Spain, I began developing some slight discomfort in my abdomen. The discomfort continued for several days, and I decided that I would see my gastroenterologist as soon as I returned home to Washington DC from my vacation.

Upon seeing the gastroenterologist, various diagnostic testings were performed, all of which returned negative. The diagnosis of gastritis was given and also GERD, and I was given medication to treat these disorders.

After checking inside while doing my Spiritual Exercises (SEs), I keep hearing that the diagnosis given was incorrect. The Traveler continued to direct me to look further to find the cause of my loss of appetite, weight loss and continued abdominal discomfort. I finally asked to have an MRI of my abdomen which revealed that I had a tumor on my pancreas. I immediately went into prayer asking for the Traveler’s help. I asked for the highest good of all concerned that Spirit provide me the spirit of discernment to guide me to the medical team that would be able to assist me in determining the best treatment course for me.

After a biopsy revealed the tumor to be a malignant adenocarcinoma, I was referred to an oncologist where treatment to reduce the tumor size began. During the following months of treatment for this tumor my total focus was to maintain a positive focus and vision of my treatment and its outcome. Creating affirmations to support myself and to lift my spirits were a part of my daily routine. Hours of SEs daily and listening to John-Roger’s Body Balance Meditation (from the Health From the Inside Out series) and John-Roger’s Luxor Meditation were also a part of my daily routine. I trusted in the Traveler and reached out to my MSIA community to keep me in their prayers and in the Light. Throughout each day I reminded myself of the Traveler’s teachings to move into a place of loving acceptance, cooperation, and unconditional loving of my journey. I kept hearing J-R say, “you can’t afford the luxury of a negative thought”. I continued to trust in the Traveler, knowing that no matter the outcome, J-R was with me.

After months and months of chemotherapy and surgery to remove the malignant tumor from the pancreas, I received good news. I was told by my oncologist that the blood markers to detect the cancer were negative and the imaging studies were also negative for cancer. My prayers and the prayers of my family, friends and MSIA community had been answered. The many teachings of the Traveler were so very helpful for me to handle the challenges that I confronted throughout my healing journey. I continue to remain prayerful and continue to trust in Spirit as I walk by faith, knowing that my trust and love of the Christ and the Traveler will continue to be my source of strength and comfort in the days ahead.

Richard Dotson

A cancer free dinner celebration with family and friends💜 (Richard Dotson, fourth from the left in the back row).

 Editor’s Note:  Richard Dotson has written a book about his healing journey which is available on Amazon.com — UNBROKEN: A SURVIVOR’S GUIDE TO BEATING CANCER: A story of faith, love, perseverance, and miracles of modern medicine: Dotson M.D., Richard.  

Richard can also be found on Instagram:  Richard.Dotson2301