Life after cancer is a reality that many people face. Chemotherapy may be over, and cancer might not be present anymore – but that doesn’t mean life stops. In fact, for many people, it’s just the beginning of a long journey. This post is about the realities that continue after cancer treatment has ended. It’s about facing these challenges in a weakened state, both physically and mentally. But it is possible to move forward!
Cancer doesn’t stop when chemo does
In some ways, it’s just the beginning or next chapter of a lifelong journey. For me, it was a time to face new challenges in a weakened state, both physically and mentally. But I was determined to move forward! Again…
Having to go through this twice now has been the hardest pill to swallow. And believe me, I have swallowed a lot of pills at this point.
One of the biggest things I have learned from talking to other survivors is the realization that there is a lot of unexpected work to get caught back up on with life and responsibilities. Just because you might be done with chemotherapy and your cancer is not present, doesn’t mean you’re done with cancer!
In fact, some say that moving forward after cancer and “picking up the pieces” of life after cancer is even more challenging. The reality is that life hasn’t stopped, and you have to face these realities in a weakened state.
Yes, the chemo ravishes every aspect of your body, and coming out of “The Fog” can seem like it takes forever. When you start down this crazy experience and path, Everything happens so fast.
Surviving cancer is an amazing accomplishment, but the battle doesn’t end there
Cancer treatment may be over, but for many people, the journey is just beginning. Facing new challenges in a weakened state can be daunting, but it is possible to move forward. Here are some things to keep in mind as you begin this next phase of your journey:
You are not alone!
There are millions of people who have been through this and understand what you are going through. Statistically speaking, the survival rates for cancer are increasing, so you are part of a growing community!
-It’s okay to not be okay. You have been through a lot, and it is normal to feel scared, angry, or sad. Give yourself time to feel and heal.
Your support system is important
Whether it’s your family, friends, or even work colleagues, these people can help you through this next phase. Talk to them about how you’re feeling, and ask for help when you need it.
You are stronger than you think
You have been through so much already, and you have the strength to get through this too. Take things one day at a time, and trust in your ability to overcome any obstacle.
Take things one day at a time
This is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself and don’t try to do too much too soon. It is easy to overwhelm yourself! Let me repeat this, IT IS EASY TO OVERWHELM YOUR SELF!!!!
This has been a huge lesson in humility for me. This can come at you in so many ways. But it has been one of the most humbling experiences as well.
Set realistic goals
This is why it’s easy to say, “we are our own worst enemy”. When you’re starting out, there is so much relief. That final chemo is a shocker and with that comes realization and excitement.
After cancer treatment, your body and mind may not be able to do everything you want them to. Set realistic goals for yourself, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you can’t meet them all. There in lies the humility.
I’m in the middle of this right now. my patience has been getting a workout, literally. Quick story. You see mountain biking has really become a passion of mine. And it saved my life. I’ve been riding a fair amount (6-8 Hours a week) since April and I’ve been hard on myself that I feel like my fitness hasn’t been getting better faster. But I have to remember…
- I’m 20 months out of treatment.
- I am on blood thinners for a clot in my neck from my Power Port.
- And I sleep with oxygen to help with my sleep.
And so many other factors as well.
Don’t let time dictate the pace.
But don’t procrastinate either! Small actionable steps will start to compound. And over time, you will see the progress, the fruits of the effort.
Remember, you are not alone!!!
This is important to come back to often.
There are millions of people who have been through this and understand what you are going through. Statistically speaking, the survival rates for cancer are increasing, so you are part of a growing community!
You have the strength to get through this too. Take things one day at a time, and trust in your ability to overcome any obstacle. Don’t forget, you got through cancer treatment!!!
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve been given is by my oncologist.
“You are now a member of a club that no one wants to be a part of, but the good news is that there are millions of members and we are all here to help you.”
Reach out for help when you need it, and offer help to others when you can.
Cancer changes you – both physically and emotionally
A cancer diagnosis is never easy to hear. In addition to the physical challenges that come with treatment, cancer can also take a toll on your emotional well-being.
It’s common to feel overwhelmed, scared or isolated after receiving a diagnosis. You may also find yourself feeling angry, sad, or resentful. dealing with these intense emotions can be a struggle.
But it can also give you a new perspective on life. You may find that you appreciate the little things more and that you are more grateful for the people in your life.
Remember that it is okay to ask for help and that there are people who care about you and want to support you through this tough time.
Life after cancer can be difficult, but it’s also full of surprises
Cancer is a life-changing event. After being diagnosed, treated, and (hopefully) cured, survivors often find themselves faced with a new set of challenges.
Some may struggle with changes to their appearance, while others may have difficulty returning to work or resuming normal activities. But life after cancer can also be full of surprises.
For many survivors, the experience is a time of personal growth and discovery. They may find themselves developing new interests, hobbies, and relationships. And while the journey isn’t always easy, it can be incredibly rewarding.
So for those facing life after cancer, don’t be afraid to embrace the unknown – it just might lead you to some amazing places.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to life after cancer – find what works for you
Cancer is a life-changing experience. No matter what the outcome, it can be a difficult and emotionally charged journey. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer, it is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to life after cancer. What works for one person may not work for another. The most important thing is to find what works. I guarantee you no one’s judging!
There are many resources available to help you navigate life after cancer. Cancer support groups can provide valuable information and emotional support. There are also online forums and websites like Internal Architect where you can connect with others who have been affected by cancer. Your doctor or healthcare team can also provide guidance and resources. As well as local support groups which have been amazing.
The most important thing is to find what works for you and take things one day at a time.
Some final thoughts
No one said that life after cancer would be easy, but it is possible to find hope and happiness in the face of great adversity. You are not alone – there are millions of people who understand what you are going through. Reach out for help when you need it, and offer help to others when you can. Remember that the journey is full of surprises and that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to life after cancer. Find what works for you and take things one day at a time.
Click here if you want to learn more about the meaning of cancer survivorship.