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At age 32, Dr. Leslie Purchase received a life-altering diagnosis of breast cancer. Before she had time to recover, her 2-year-old daughter was diagnosed with brain cancer. The years that followed were marked by survival and resilience but also by emotional suppression as Dr Leslie and her family packed away their feelings to cope with the trauma. It wasn't until a decade later that she began to unpack these emotions and seek healing for herself and her family. It was then that Dr Purchase found a powerful ally in Keith's Cacao.
With an impressive academic background that includes a biology degree from Johns Hopkins University, a philosophy degree from King's College in London, and a medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine, Dr Leslie had initially worked as a general surgeon. However, her personal experiences with cancer led her to a new calling: becoming a cancer coach and a Keith's Cacao practitioner, helping individuals navigate the psychosocial and emotional aspects of a cancer diagnosis.
Her journey with Keith's Cacao began in the fall of 2019. Amidst a politically divided America, Dr Leslie sought to connect with others through meaningful conversations over coffee. During one of these encounters, a male adult participant ordered hot chocolate instead of coffee, challenging Dr Leslie's preconceptions about pleasure and indulgence. Curiosity led her to explore various chocolate products, including Keith's Cacao, which she initially tucked away in her closet, unsure how to use.
The turning point came when Dr Leslie hired a Cacao practitioner to celebrate a friend's 50th birthday. The moment she took her first sip of Keith's Cacao, she knew she had found something extraordinary. This potent elixir resonated with her deeply, offering a sense of connection and wholeness she hadn't realized she was missing. This was not just a delicious beverage; it was medicine!
Dr Leslie immediately recognized the effects of Keith's Cacao, particularly its ability to anchor her in her body while allowing her to process difficult emotions: this was embodiment medicine that enabled her to feel her feelings fully and authentically. "The gentle nature of Keith's Cacao makes it an ideal aid for cancer patients and their caregivers. It reintroduces the idea that it is safe to inhabit one's body after the ravages of cancer treatment. Beyond its nutritional benefits, Keith's Cacao offers a sense of security and comfort that is invaluable for those on the cancer journey," she says.
Keith's Cacao has become integral to Dr Leslie's cancer coaching practice. In her workshops and retreats, she uses it to foster a sense of community and connection among participants. Whether for grief or celebration, the Cacao ceremonies she leads help participants remember and reclaim forgotten parts of themselves. "The process of remembering," she explains, "involves calling back the pieces of ourselves we have hidden away due to trauma or cultural pressures." This reconnection allows individuals to become more authentic and genuine versions of themselves.
Dr Leslie describes Keith's Cacao as a plant medicine that meets individuals where they are, providing what they need. Hence, she also drinks it to tap into her authentic creativity, solve problems, and enhance her daily experiences. Whether preparing for a strenuous workout or engaging in a challenging task, Keith's 100% Pure Ceremonial Cacao transforms these activities into celebrations of life.
Dr Leslie is profoundly grateful to the founder of Keith's Cacao, Keith Wilson, for bringing this beautiful medicine to the world. Although she has never met him, the impact of his work resonates deeply in her life and the lives of those she touches through her coaching and ceremonies. She knows that Keith's Cacao is more than just a delicious drink; it is a beautiful medicine that brings richness, depth, and authenticity to every aspect of life. And "good medicine", she says, "is meant to be shared."
New to Ceremonial Cacao? Head to our Quick Start Guide to learn more about this versatile, magical superfood and instructions on preparing a perfect cup.
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