Survivorship

The cancer journey can take you on a jagged road with too many twists and turns. It doesn't always have to be an emotional rollercoaster if you know how to walk it.

For those of us living in the wake of a big diagnosis, how we define life, living and every day can be clouded by fear and misguided ideas of what it means to truly live. What I’ve learned is that life is not about what we are doing, but why and how we do what we have to for however long we get to be alive.

When the physical effects of cancer make it harder to do things, you can still find a way to move forward.

This breast cancer and melanoma survivor encourages newly diagnosed cancer patients to hang onto their hope.

As much as patients look forward to the day they can ring the bell or hear they have no evidence of disease, it can also mean they will be sent out on their own to sort through life with the long-term damage of cancer.

By the time 14 months of treatment were through, I was watching a woman I no longer recognized and could not bear to look at in the mirror. I realized that to truly be a survivor, I had to readjust my expectations of myself.

Making the shift from survivor to 'thriver' is challenging. In this post, learn how one survivor makes the change.

This cancer survivor finds a hidden treasure in death and dying.

How to build good self-care habits for a better life with cancer.

Breast cancer is no laughing matter, but being able to find something to laugh about in the midst of the trial can be cathartic.

Connect yourself to items that can help you through your cancer journey.

Deborah A. Boyle, MSN, RN, AOCNS, FAAN, describes two types of cancer survivorship care plans that are increasing in popularity across the US.

Recovering from cancer and its aftermath is like grief; always changing, undulating and rippling like a tide.

Learn how the pain through the trauma of cancer can transform in positive ways.

At 56, after two bouts of cancer, I realized something about my life.

When and where to mention (or not mention) your ongoing cancer survivorship story?

Writing down our thoughts is a novel idea.

Your disease does not make you unworthy, because only the worthy will see past it.

A mastectomy can leave a lasting mark. This breast cancer survivor found her own unique way to make it a beautiful one.

Why it matters when hope isn't really hope at all (and tips on reading articles about cancer research).

Survivors with children face some of the biggest challenges when it comes to visualizing the future. After my breast cancer diagnosis in 1986, it was my daughter's future, rather than my own, for which I bargained.

I am the first to admit that I have a love-hate relationship with breast forms post-mastectomy. Every now and then, I do put one on. It comforts me to know that there are multiple options (especially for women who wear them regularly).

Here are tips for fellow cancer survivors to clear out cancer paraphernailia but keep important medical records.

Jeff Young, D.V.M., refused to let cancer stop him from living.

I know that once you are a cancer survivor, you're always a cancer survivor, but will that sinking feeling of no control ever go away?

Seven points about what is means to be a survivor

And no matter how isolating cancer can be for some patients, they need to know that they are not alone. An entire world of resources is out there, but without somebody to guide those affected by cancer, they may never know of this world.

A variety of cancer treatments can affect eye health, but being proactive helps avoid or lessen ocular issues.

Know your rights and make a plan to help ensure a smooth transition back into the workforce.

The transition into survivorship is no easy feat. Emotions are mixed, long-term and late side effects may kick in and follow-up care appointments start. But are survivors getting the best possible care after cancer treatment? That’s still up for debate.