Survivorship

This year’s National Cancer Survivors’ Day celebration is Sunday, June 1. The definition of “cancer survivor” is very broad, and “survivorship” can be used to describe the process a person with cancer goes through. Being a cancer survivor is different for each person and can involve many different emotions and concerns.

 
According to the National Cancer Institute, a cancer survivor is “anyone diagnosed with cancer, from the time of diagnosis to the end of life” and includes caregivers and family members. A person just diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment is surviving. There are those who do not like to use the word “survivor” and may use other terms such as “warrior,” “thriver,” “veteran” and “cancer conqueror.”

 
Once diagnosed, a cancer patient may feel many different emotions such as fear, anxiety and anger. These emotions may exist throughout treatment and beyond. If these emotions begin to interfere with everyday activities, patients should inform their doctors. Help is available through support groups, individual counseling and medications.

Once treatment ends, another set of emotions and anxieties may occur. “Daily activities” may change as patients no longer have to receive treatment. Anxiety may increase due to fear of recurrence. Patients need to realize this is the “new normal.” Patients should not expect to be the same as they were before being diagnosed with cancer. They have evolved and changed through their cancer journey.

On this year’s National Cancer Survivor Day, take the time to reflect and congratulate yourself, no matter where you are in your cancer journey. Celebrate your life! 
 
The Cancer Institute welcomes any questions or topics of interest. I can be reached by email at tagreen@utmck.edu or 865.305.6154.

Sincerely,
Teri Green
Social Worker
Cancer Institute
865.305.6154