Chasing Aloha: A Skeptic's Hopeful Journey Through Cancer and the Great Recession

As an environmentalist committed to organic living, Jane Savary never thought she’d get cancer. As the breadwinner for her small family, she never thought she’d have to stop working because of illness. After her 2006 diagnosis with ovarian cancer, Jane and her family are thrust into emotional and financial upheaval. Weaving the tale of their experience in with life stories, the author explores the possible causes of her cancer from an environmental and social perspective. While recovering, she also reflects on the country’s televised financial meltdown, realizing she will be back on her feet just in time for the Great Recession and a miserable job market. Seeing their uncertain times as an opportunity, the family wants to pursue their dream of moving from the hustle of Southern California to Hawaii. Frozen in indecision and fearful of change, they are torn between living a life of security or one of adventure. They eventually pursue their dream and move to the Big Island of Hawaii, discovering a whole new way of living and facing unexpected new challenges.