Deegan Releases New Book: Through Rose Colored Glasses

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- When we talk about cancer, we often use words like fight and battle. But First Coast News anchor and three time breast cancer survivor Donna Deegan would like to take those words out of the cancer conversation.

She's written about her journey in a very personal new book, called Through Rose Colored Glasses, A Marathon From Fear To Love.

"That's why I called it Through Rose Colored Glasses. I have worn those glasses for years and years, but it's only been recently I started to see that way. If you choose to see the world through a rosier lens, that is exactly what you'll get back," Deegan said.

Apparently it's all about perspective. Because it might be easier for anyone diagnosed with cancer to give up or be afraid.

"When I was diagnosed for the third time, it was just a few months before my inaugural marathon. Here I am in full sprint towards this event, so to speak, and I'm diagnosed for the third time."

But according to Donna Deegan, fear was literally not an option.

"I think what happens to cancer patients or anyone going through a stressful period, is that you become so caught up in those fearful thoughts you are worried about the past, or worried about the future, am I going to live or die that you forget to live in the only time that any of us has, right now."

So after having already authored one book about her triumph against cancer, she decided to open herself up again.

"The first book ws not only my story, but other people's stories and how we are all connected. Some people with cancer, some with other difficulties in their lives. This book is really my journey. This is a very personal book about my life. But what I hope that people get from this is that it's the way I connect with others that defines my life."

Donna has made a lot of changes since that third diagnosis, now almost two years ago. She's changed her diet, no gluten or dairy, lots of green. And she meditates every day to try to find a balance for, as she calls it, her 'type A run 'til you drop' life. But the biggest change she says, is how she views the world, through those rose colored glasses.

"The biggest difference, and what I hope people will take away from this book, is that you can seperate fear from cancer, and you can seperate fight from cancer and not only can you, if you do, I think you have a much better chance of doing well."

And Deegan is doing well. She says her health today is excellent.

Donna's first book signing is schedule for October 3rd at the Bookmark in Atlantic Beach at 5pm. Proceeds benefit the 26.2 With Donna Foundation which supports breast cancer research at Mayo Clinic, and care for financially challenged women with breast cancer through The Donna Foundation.

CLICK HERE for more information on the book and future signing dates.

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