Surviving cancer is an emotionally draining experience. Few things in life can make you appreciate what you have more than getting into a dark place that is cancer and come out the other side. It is one of the most frightening things that no one could ever take.
As scary as cancer is, however, know that you are stronger than you ever thought you could be. It takes a surprising well of strength to beat cancer. It is not an easy journey, and not everyone is able to make it through. As a survivor, you are so much luckier than many others. Do you remember how you felt when you were in the worst part of your illness? Remember what newly found sense of appreciation for things in your life that you did not know if you had the chance to experience again? Hold it! Use this valuable experience to each day.
It is also extremely important to remain vigilant. Unfortunately, in many cases the cancer may return, even if you have been cancer free for a long time. That is why it is so important for you to be supervised by a physician. If the cancer does return and you are seen regularly, it can be caught early and be treated right away. Early intervention is crucial to the fight against cancer. Stay healthy both through exercise and a healthy balanced diet, rich in whole grains, with lots of healthy fruits and vegetables. This is the building block of a solid body and mind.
Remember, too, that others going through cancer can benefit from your knowledge and experience. When you were in hospital, facing a formidable medical test or treatment painful, do you feel lonely, as if nobody really knew about you that you go through? Others feel this way too, and they could use someone to just say "Hey, I know how you feel. You will get through this." Such a simple statement, but that can bring great hope to a heart that can feel that all is lost. Do not underestimate the role that the will of a person can play in their recovery. Sometimes the will of a living patient can be renewed simply by connecting with a kindred spirit. You can be the reason why another cancer patient becomes more of a cancer survivor.
Cancer is a disease ignoble. Survival is amazing - you really beat the odds. Do not take this for granted! Live your life to the fullest every day, take care of yourself, and use your survival status to help those who are still fighting to win a new sense of hope.
