In this episode, Dr. Danica Thornberry meets with Dr. Jaclyn Tolentino; a board-certified family physician, breast cancer survivor, and integrative/functional medicine leader at Love.Life to unpack an 8-year fertility journey shaped by resilience, root-cause healing, and a major mindset shift.

Jaclyn shares how a breast lump discovered accidentally at age 33 led to a multitude of rapid decisions (double mastectomy, chemo, hormone suppression), and how fertility preservation quickly became part of a survival plan. She walks us through the emotional and functional medicine “detective work” she did that helped her understand how her body had become “hospitable” to disease—notably: unprocessed trauma, chronic stress, and estrogen metabolism issues.

On the fertility side, Jaclyn details the cycle that finally worked: surrendering control, building daily rituals (sun on the belly, meditation/visualization), consistent acupuncture + herbs, targeted minerals, and mitochondria support. She also explains why the “perfect plan” can often backfire, how to stay curious when doctors discourage you, and how to advocate for yourself without losing feminine "softness" in the process.

This episode is a grounded mix of medicine and meaning—reminding listeners that hope CAN stay alive, even when the dream takes a different shape.

To work with Dr Jaclyn Tolentino, please visit Love.Life to book a virtual session or schedule in-person care in El Segundo, CA. At Love.Life, Jaclyn provides holistic care and a comprehensive functional medicine approach to wellness. You can follow her on Ig @drjaclyntolentino and learn more about her on her website: drjaclyntolentino.com.

Support this podcast by sharing with other women who could use an infusion of hope on this often challenging journey.

Episode is sponsored by The Seed Fertility Program (www.seedfertility.com). Listeners can use promo code BABYMAKERS to receive 20% off monthly memberships and all available courses.