Jean Galloway believes the key to a healthy life lies in the ability to maintain a positive attitude.

"There’s a fine line between sickness and health," she said. "Life is a short journey, so it’s important to live good, with a clear conscience. Life can be wonderful — it’s up to you."

The 85-year-old Hono­lulu resident was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 1986 and was given four months to live.

"They removed my whole stomach and used part of my small intestine to create a new stomach," she said.

She refused to accept the death sentence and began to seek out an alternative means of healing. "I never let my guard down — and took a holistic approach to healing," she said. "You need to be the captain of your own ship."

Her late husband, Bob, a naturopath physician, took her to a cancer clinic in San Diego for treatment. The holistic therapies included vitamin C, dietary changes and chelation therapy, administering formulas to remove heavy metals and toxins from the body. She was diagnosed with breast cancer eight months after her stomach surgery and was treated holistically once again.

"I’d go walking at Sand Island and watch the stray cats climb on the rocks. I’d watch the ants make their homes. I learned to appreciate the little things," she said.

She never expected that she would ever start a business, but her personal struggles led her to open an herb shop, Nature’s Sunshine Product Center, at Kukui Plaza, 50 S. Beretania St.

"I’m passionate about wanting to share my story and help others," she said. "I just want to help people."

Nature’s Sunshine is all about elimination, something Galloway feels is of the utmost importance. "The company makes good cleansers and vitamins. Some people don’t get enough fiber," she added. Nature’s Sunshine manufactures its own products. "The planting and harvesting is supervised. I’ve never had a complaint about any of their products."

Galloway also suggests drinking oxygenated water to maintain health. She occasionally eats small amounts of meat in a stir fry, but hasn’t consumed chicken since she was diagnosed with cancer.

Galloway has also learned how to network, manages her own books and answers the phone in addition to consulting with customers.

"I’m a one-man show," she said. "The more research I do, the more I want to learn. I’m amazed how much I can still learn at an old age."

Although she strongly believes in the supplements that she sells, she pushes the ideas of faith, happiness and a positive attitude, above all.

"I’ve also learned to make fun of myself because that way, you don’t get into trouble.

"You lose out by dying early," Galloway added. "There’s magic in believing. Nature’s Sunshine is saving my life."

The business also serves as an avenue for Galloway to meet new people on a regular basis.

"People are so interesting," she said. "I love what I’m doing. I’m always making new friends."