If you are someone who has or is battling cancer, you know that it always feels like an uphill struggle. It takes a very considerable toll on the host mentally and physically. No one is pretending that all the success stories we hear make up the bulk of those with cancer. It is well understood that the stories of triumph are the objects of hope in dark times of those too wishing they could be cancer survivors.
But cancer survivors do not get to be this way overnight, and that’s what usually makes each of their stories so unique and incredible. Many times it consists of very painful treatment that leaves them weak and in terrible discomfort, and also usually is accompanied by a degrading look as well (such as a loss of hair). So the road is long and hard, but it helps to see a light at the end of the tunnel.
There is no formula to beating cancer, and therefore there is no guarantee. Many have found hope in the advances in modern science that have added dramatic change and aggressive approaches to treating the disease. If you are one of the fortunate souls that were cured with current treatment methods, you have a heavy burden being the face of hope on such a dark road. There is no doubt that you yourself aren't even the same person you were before you found out about the cancer.
But we can pretend for a moment that just a few minutes ago you were informed that the cancer they had been treating was no where to be found. Treatment was a success. You are overjoyed and thankful, and you begin calling your friends and your family to share the good news with them.
In addition to the elation, you might also feel anxious and stressed about what this means for you now. What do you do with your life now? Some, in hearing this news decide that they should devote their lives to awareness of the disease and getting others to support further research towards a certain cure. Others want to be able to be well enough to simply go back to work and feel part of the world at large again. Whatever you choose, there is help for you.
There are many programs that are available specifically for cancer survivors. Rehabilitation, job placement, and support groups are among some of the most common. In many cases it is hard to look at a new lease on life optimistically when you didn’t plan on making it out through the light at the end of the tunnel.
Foundations and groups like LAF, or the Lance Armstrong Foundation, pride themselves on helping those through any stage of cancer. It's a battle from start to finish, even when you are cancer free. LAF has resources and help available to those dealing with any cancer related issue. Sometimes a kind voice on the other end of a phone means more than anything.
If you are, or know someone who is a cancer survivor, consider it a blessing. This is an awakening of many different manners that not everyone will get to experience. You have been through the worst to stand on top of the mountain, and you should take this second chance to live like you always meant to.
Cancer is tough. It takes a lot out of you. cancer survivors are looking for support. If you or someone you love is a cancer survivor, click here.
