When most people ask me about the health benefits of being vegan, I tell the story of Donna Green Goodman. I interviewed Donna about a year ago for Breast Cancer Awareness month. She was diagnosed with an aggressive, invasive form breast cancer and given 2-5 years to live. But thanks in large part to a plant based diet she survived… and 20 plus years afte, she’s still thriving cancer free.

After her diagnosis, her oncologist recommended radiation, chemo, stem cell therapy and tamoxifen. Aside from a short time with radiation, Donna opted not to follow what her doctor recommended. She found a lifestyle physician and took a more holistic approach, which included a vegan diet. Based on a study by the National Cancer Institute, she realized phytochemicals were here best bet. Phytochemicals are found in fruits and vegetables and are believed to protect cells from becoming cancerous.

In addition to cancer, there is much research linking plant foods to prevention and reversal of other diseases such as heart disease, hypertension and type 2 diabetes. With this knowledge and her own success, Donna decided to dedicate her life to helping others. Along with her husband, she runs a wellness clinic in Huntsville, Alabama, where she provides diet coaching, cooking classes, and more. She’s even written a few inspiration books that include her mouth-watering recipes for dishes like vegan chicken and waffles and southern collard greens.

Donna is a survivor and a lover of life. Take a listen to my entire Tom Joyner Morning Show interview with her to learn more about her story.

You can find her recipes and other healthy living tips on her website and you can follow her on instagram and Facebook @stillshoutin