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Introduction
"While I was having chemo, I quit doing
almost everything. So when treatment
ended, the challenge for me was, what
am I going to do now with my life?
What should I go back to doing?"
- Len
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Many cancer survivors have told us
that while they felt they had lots of
information and support during their
illness, once treatment stopped, they
entered a whole new world - one
filled with new questions. This
booklet was written to share common
feelings and reactions that many
people just like you have had after
treatment ended.
It also offers some practical tips to
help you through this time. Use this
booklet in whatever way works best
for you. You can read it from
beginning to end. Or you can just
refer to the section you need.
| Who is a survivor? |
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This booklet uses the term "cancer
survivor" to include anyone who
has been diagnosed with cancer,
from the time of diagnosis through
the rest of his or her life. Family
members, friends, and caregivers are
also part of the survivorship
experience.
You may not like the word, or you
may feel that it does not apply to
you, but the word "survivor" helps
many people think about embracing
their lives beyond their illness.
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This booklet shares what we have
learned from other survivors about life after cancer: practical ways of dealing
with common problems and guidelines for managing your physical, social,
and emotional health. When possible, we include specific information from
research with cancer survivors.
While cancer is a major event for all who are diagnosed, it brings with it the
chance for growth. As hard as treatment can be, many cancer survivors have
told us that the experience led them to make important changes in their lives.
Many say they now take time to appreciate each new day. They also have
learned how to take better care of themselves and value how others care for
them. Others draw from their experience to become advocates to improve
cancer research, treatment, and care.
We hope that this booklet will serve as a resource and inspiration to you as
you face forward to your life after cancer.
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For ease of reading, rather than listing the many professionals that you may
see as part of your medical care, you'll find the term "doctor" used in the
booklet to describe all medical interactions.
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Next Section > |
