By Thabisani Dube

When Debbie Jeans received her breast cancer diagnosis over a decade ago, the world seemed to collapse around her. As the weight of the news settled in, she felt the familiar tremors of fear and uncertainty. But instead of succumbing to despair, 

The renowned judoka Jeans, who has represented the country at several games, viewed her diagnosis as a catalyst for change—a chance to redefine the narrative surrounding cancer treatment and patient empowerment.

“It’s not the cancer that’s the problem,” Jeans asserts, her voice steady with conviction. “It’s when it spreads.” This insight became the cornerstone of her mission: to empower cancer patients and their families through lifestyle medicine, transforming their approach to health and healing.

Jeans’ journey was initially fraught with the overwhelming emotions that accompany such a diagnosis. “We walked out of there, and it was like, what now? Where do I go? What do I think? Who do I talk to?” she recalls. With the unwavering support of her husband, a sports medicine doctor, she began a path of self-advocacy and exploration, determined to take control of her health.

At the heart of Jeans’ philosophy lies “terrain-based medicine.” This concept posits that our lifestyle and environment significantly influence the conditions that allow diseases to flourish. “We all have a seed for something—a seed for diabetes, a seed for cancer,” she explains. “When we create the perfect terrain for that seed to grow, that’s when it happens.”

Inspired by this revelation, Jeans launched the “Pink Project,” aimed at sharing her findings with breast cancer patients. Yet, as her understanding deepened, she recognised that her insights extended far beyond cancer. “We can replace ‘cancer’ with coronary heart disease, depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), hypertension, obesity—because it’s all metabolic disease,” she emphasises.

Her comprehensive five-step strategy for patients post-diagnosis underscores her commitment to empowerment. From taking a deep breath and seeking a second opinion to meticulously assembling a dream team of healthcare providers, Jeans’ approach stands in stark contrast to the traditional “cut, poison, burn” methods often associated with cancer treatment.

“What we’re offering through a lifestyle approach is a way to minimise those side effects during and after treatment,” Jeans says, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. Her belief in the body’s innate healing power is infectious, inspiring a paradigm shift in how we view cancer and chronic illnesses.

Jeans’ resilience is evident in her pursuit of knowledge. When a transformative US$5,000 course caught her attention, she refused to be deterred by the cost. Through resourcefulness and tenacity, she managed to secure a significant discount, making the programme accessible to patients in Zimbabwe and beyond.

As Jeans continues to spread her message, her energy and passion for lifestyle medicine ripple outward, touching the lives of countless individuals. “Her story is a shining example of how one person’s journey can inspire and empower others,” says Dr. Allen Chiura, a specialist who has collaborated with Jeans.

For Jeans, the journey is far from finished. She firmly believes that many health challenges can be addressed through simple, time-honoured practices—eating real, whole foods and fostering community connections.

Her advocacy extends to nutrition, emphasising the importance of consuming nutrient-dense foods like sweet potatoes, bone broth, and dark chocolate. She cautions against refined carbohydrates and sugary drinks, illustrating her point with the alarming statistic that a single caffeinated beverage can contain up to nine teaspoons of sugar—far exceeding the body’s ideal limit of one teaspoon.

“If it’s in a packet, bag, or box, it’s not real food,” Jeans insists. She encourages her audience to embrace traditional meals, such as stews and bone broth, which have been compromised by modern dietary trends.

Jeans is equally passionate about educating children, urging parents to involve their kids in the kitchen. “Teaching them to cook wholesome meals not only nourishes the body but also fosters a deeper connection to where our food comes from,” she explains.

As she guides others on their paths to wellness, Jeans’ story exemplifies the transformative power of lifestyle medicine and the indomitable human spirit. Her determination to share knowledge and empower those around her serves as a beacon of hope for cancer patients and anyone seeking to optimise their health.

“It’s just choices,” she says, her voice brimming with conviction. “Guys, there’s life. There’s life.” Through her unwavering dedication, Jeans is igniting a revolution in health and well-being, paving the way for a brighter future for those facing chronic illness.