Voices

Although I was never a member of a sorority in the traditional sense, having breast cancer has put me into a sorority of women (and a few men) and created lifelong freidnships.

A two-time cancer survivor notes that although long-term cancer side effects can pile up, many are manageable.

Even though I knew I was eligible for COBRA and that it would come into effect soon, my anxiety soared and grew as the days progressed. I told anybody who would listen that a cancer survivor in the time of COVID cannot be without insurance for even a second.

A colon cancer survivor reflects on receiving her first diagnosis as a high school student, and offers current students whose academic careers have been altered by COVID-19 some advice on how they'll get through the missed experiences.

An 11-year survivor of inflammatory breast cancer details how even though she considers herself one of the lucky ones, the awareness that “as far as we know” could change in one blinding moment still haunts her.
 

A metastatic breast cancer survivor notes that It takes bravery to choose friends with cancer, but she stresses that the love and joy that comes with those friendships far outweigh the potential grief.
 

There aren't many upsides to getting diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, except for the fact that I lost 100 pounds and now look good in skinny jeans.
 

I asked fellow patients with cancer and survivors on Twitter for advice on coping strategies to combat "Scanxiety" and some suggested making a conscious attempt to not let anxiety ruin the days leading up to your next scan. I gave it a shot, and it worked. 

A 10-year breast cancer, and six-year melanoma survivor reassures other survivors that they are not alone if they are struggling with anxiety, depression or PTSD years after their cancer treatments have ended.

As I walk around the senior community that I live in, I notice the stark reminders that life is an impermanent adventure.