“5 days left to live” - Overcoming Cancer, Fear, and a Victim Mindset | Axel Schurawlow

Episode #303. Two years ago, Axel Schurawlow was finishing his fifth round of chemotherapy. Today, he sits down with me to share the lessons he’s learned from staring death in the face. From reckoning with the delicate nature of our existence to making the most of the time we have left, Axel has a lot to teach about reframing your mindset to live a full life. You’ll learn about what it’s like to hear that you have five days left to live, and how Axel found the strength to fight. Axel explains how your life will change when you lean on the people you love, set goals, and step out of the victim mentality. Regardless of whether you’ve lived a fulfilling life or are just getting started, Axel’s perspective on life might just change yours. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Understanding Cancer Diagnosis: Immediate Reactions (01:33) How to Stay Motivated During Recovery (06:52) The Importance of Therapy and Support from Loved Ones (11:28) How a Life-Threatening Diagnosis Can Teach You About Fear and Purpose (19:17) How Do Relationships Contribute to Healing and Growth? (25:53) Why Gratitude and Perspective Matter in Appreciating Life (30:26) Re-evaluating Life's Priorities After a Major Health Scare (37:43) Setting Goals for Health Recovery: Axel Schura's Journey (43:03) The Role of Love and Connection in Leading a Fulfilling Life (51:05) Axel Schura on Embracing Responsibility After Beating Cancer (57:16) The Benefits of Positive Reframing and Taking Self-Responsibility (01:01:33) Building Resilience: How to Overcome Life's Difficult Moments (01:09:50) Nutritional Guidance During Cancer Treatment (01:19:30) Addressing Fertility and Planning for Family After Treatment (01:26:00) Hope and Perseverance: Key Takeaways from Axel Schura's Experience (01:32:33) Connect with Axel and learn more about his story on Instagram, YouTube, through his website, and podcast. Axel is offering The Proof's listeners three months of free access to his online community. To claim, just send a direct message with the keyword “SIMON” to Axel on Instagram. Sponsors: If you want to improve your health, you need to measure where you’re currently at. InsideTracker analyses up to 48 blood biomarkers including ApoB, LDL, HDL, A1C, and more before giving you advice to optimise your health. Get a 20% discount on your first order at insidetracker.com/simon. Eimele Essential 8 is a comprehensive multivitamin that is scientifically formulated to complement your plant-rich diet, increase and sustain your energy, support the immune system, as well as heart and brain health. Head to Eimele.com and use code SIMON at checkout for 10% off your first order. Whoop, the most advanced fitness and health wearable available. Your personalised fitness and health coach to recover faster, sleep better, and train smarter. Claim your first month free on join.whoop.com/simon. Want to support the show? The best way to support the show is to use the products and services offered by our sponsors. To check them out, and enjoy great savings, visit theproof.com/friends. You can also show your support by leaving a review on the Apple Podcast app and/or sharing your favourite episodes with your friends and family. Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons) Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill Author of The Proof is in the Plants Watch the episodes on YouTube or listen on Apple/Spotify Connect with me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook Nourish your gut with my Plant-Based Ferments Guide Download my complimentary Two-Week Meal Plan and high protein Plant Performance recipe book