Kate Middleton, the princess of Wales, has reached many people around the world by speaking about her experience after cancer treatment. Her comments normalized and brought attention to what many oncology patients are thinking.
When treatment is done, there are still concerns and fears that exist, and there may be a new normal. One of the most expressed fears by cancer patients is the reoccurrence of the cancer.
I’ve spoken to different patients who are in surveillance (out of cancer treatment but following up with doctors to keep a close eye on it). Each of these patients can’t help automatically thinking, “It’s going to be bad news—the cancer is back,” every time they come for a follow-up appointment or are waiting to receive the results of their scans.
For those who have had a cancer diagnosis, these feelings are very understandable and a normal thought process. You are not alone.
The following are suggestions patients may try to reduce the fear. Remember there is no one-size-fits-all answer, and this is not an all-encompassing list. Other suggestions can certainly be added as everyone is a unique individual.
- Talk to your health care team. Ask questions. Educate yourself on potential symptoms so you know what to look for and when to contact your provider. Become an active participant in your cancer journey.
- Focus on what you can control.
- Keep all follow-up appointments while in surveillance (including scans and doctor appointments).
- Make healthy lifestyle choices (exercise, nutrition, quit smoking if needed, etc.).
- Seek emotional support (trusted friends, family members, mental health professional).
- Join a support group. Many cancer diagnoses have their own type of support group. Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana locally offers programs of support for patients, family, friends and children.
- Ask about the Thrive Clinic, a survivorship program at UofL Health – Brown Cancer Center. The focus is on restoring function, improving quality of life and preventing additional cancer-related side effects or reoccurrence.
Fear can negatively impact patients’ quality of life. Excessive worry and fear can give way to anxiety, depression and distress.
Acknowledging the fear of recurrence is a paramount step toward promoting an improvement in your quality of life. In turn, you will be better equipped with more realistic expectations, greater peace and better acceptance of your survivorship journey.
To learn more about the Thrive Clinic or survivorship or to get additional resources, call the Resource Center at Brown Cancer Center: 502-562-7092.
