A candidate in the upcoming provincial election in Newfoundland and Labrador has come under fire for online comments she made earlier this week suggesting some people with cancer can cure themselves with self awareness.
A tweet by Progressive Conservative Tina Olivero regarding mental health touched off a broader online discussion about her views on the role of positive thinking in fighting and curing illnesses.
"I believe that lots of illnesses can be cured with how we think and how we act and with positive thinking," Olivero says in a tweet transmitted Wednesday.
That prompted the following response from one observer: "So I was widowed at age 30 because my husband wasn't self-aware enough about his cancer? Well now I feel better."
Olivero replied: "SOME people can cure cancer with self awareness, self healing, self curing...yes SOME DO!"
She later clarified her comments, saying self awareness is one aspect of illness treatment.
Olivero, the publisher of St. John's-based The Oil and Gas Magazine, later posted a lengthy message on Facebook saying her earlier comments on Twitter were misconstrued and misquoted.
"The thing that stuck out the most is how media have the freedom to spin a story which ever way they want and all to often it's in irresponsible ways," the post says. "Please don't misquote me. Not all media but 'SOME' media use the medium simply to create drama, sensationalism and a flurry of engagement."
Olivero also explained that she did not return calls for media interviews because "being picked apart and having your words manipulated is not worth it."
Olivero couldn't be reached for comment Friday.
Tory Premier Paul Davis, a cancer survivor who was treated with chemotherapy, said Olivero has a right to express her opinions. But he also said he told the candidate she needs to focus her attention on the campaign for the Nov. 30 vote.
"I look forward to varying viewpoints, but I don't always agree with them," the premier said in an interview. "I've suggested to Ms. Olivero that she needs to focus her energies on knocking on doors ... She's brand new to politics. I want to make sure our candidates are sensitive to all of the people of our province."
Olivero describes herself as a "global visionary" in the energy market. She also operates a company that offers "transformational training" and courses in wisdom and personal leadership.