What exactly is the term “survival”?
To different people, the term “survival” denotes other things. Having no indications of cancer following treatment, for example, is a standard definition.
Living with, through, and beyond cancer is a difficult task. According to this definition, cancer survivorship begins at diagnosis and continues throughout treatment and the rest of a person’s life.
One of the most challenging aspects of having cancer is surviving. This is because everyone’s situation is unique. To lower the chance of recurrence or to manage cancer as a chronic condition, some people continue to undergo cancer treatment for a long time.
Joy, concern, relief, remorse, and terror are overwhelming emotions survivors may experience. Following a cancer diagnosis, some people feel they have gained a greater acceptance of themselves and appreciate life. Others become quite concerned about their health and unsure about how to go about their daily lives.
When frequent visits to the healthcare team end after treatment, survivors may experience some anxiety. Relationships with cancer care providers often provide a sense of stability during treatment, and patients miss having this support. This is especially true if new concerns and challenges emerge over time, such as treatment-related side effects, emotional obstacles such as fear of recurrence, sexual health and reproductive concerns, and financial and career concerns.
Coping effectively necessitates:
Every survivor has their issues and difficulties. Recognizing and discussing your worries is a significant starting step with any problem.
- Recognizing the difficulty you’re up against
- Solution-oriented thinking
- requesting and accepting help from others
- Being at ease with the path of action you’ve chosen
Joining an in-person support group or an online network of survivors is beneficial to many survivors. This allows you to speak with others who have had comparable first-hand experiences. Talking with a friend or a member of your health care team, individual counselling, or asking for help at the learning resource centre of the facility where you had treatment are all alternatives for getting help.
Caregivers’ roles are evolving.
Family members and friends may go through transitions as well. A caregiver is critical in helping someone who has been diagnosed with cancer by giving daily or as-needed physical, emotional, and practical care. Many caretakers get obsessed with providing this support, especially if the treatment lasts months or years.
However, as treatment progresses, the caregiver’s position frequently shifts. Caregiving associated with a cancer diagnosis will eventually become far less necessary.
A fresh way of looking at your health
Survivorship is a powerful motivator for many people to undertake lifestyle adjustments.
Appendix cancer survivors are recommended to follow recognized health guidelines, such as not smoking, limiting drinking, eating well, and managing stress. Regular physical activity can aid in the recovery of strength and energy. Based on your needs, physical ability, and fitness level, your health care team can assist you in developing an effective exercise plan. Learn more about how to live a healthy lifestyle.
Furthermore, it is critical to have recommended medical check-ups and testing (see Follow-up Care) to maintain your health.
Consult your doctor to create a survivorship care plan tailored to your requirements.
