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Melanoma is one of the most aggressive types of skin cancer, and the diagnosis of this disease can be a traumatic event. Survivors of melanoma may experience physical, emotional, and psychological challenges after completing treatment. Here is what you need to know about life after melanoma, including coping strategies, recovery tips, and support resources. Coping with life after melanoma Coping with life after melanoma can be daunting. Patients may experience a range of emotions, including anxiety, fear, depression, and uncertainty about the future. Here are some coping strategies that can help: Seek support: Talking with loved ones, joining a support group, or seeing a therapist can help patients process their emotions and find a sense of community. Manage symptoms: Melanoma survivors may experience symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and lymphedema. Working with healthcare providers to manage these symptoms can help improve quality of life. Practice self-care: Taking time for self-care activities such as meditation, yoga, or hobbies can help promote relaxation and reduce stress. Address body image concerns: Melanoma treatment can affect a patient's physical appearance, and this may impact their self-esteem. Connecting with support groups or speaking with a counselor can help patients navigate these feelings. Recovery after melanoma treatment Recovering from melanoma treatment can be a slow and gradual process. Patients may experience side effects from treatment that persist for weeks, months, or even years. Here are some tips to help with recovery: Follow up with healthcare providers: Regular follow-up visits with healthcare providers can help monitor for recurrence, manage side effects, and address any new concerns. Practice good nutrition: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help support recovery and overall health. Stay on top of screenings: Patients should continue to follow recommended skin cancer screening guidelines to detect any potential recurrence early. Consider physical therapy: Physical therapy can help patients regain strength, mobility, and function after melanoma treatment. Support resources for melanoma survivors Melanoma survivors may benefit from a range of support resources, including: Support groups: Local and online support groups can provide a sense of community and connection with others who have gone through similar experiences. Mental health resources including counseling and support groups. Survivorship programs that provide education, resources, and support for survivors and their families. Conclusion Life after melanoma can be challenging, but with the right support and resources, patients can successfully navigate the post-treatment period. Coping strategies, recovery tips, and support resources can all help promote physical, emotional, and psychological well-being for melanoma survivors. It is important to remember that every patient's experience with melanoma is unique. There is no correct way to go about life after melanoma, as it is different for everyone. Patients should work closely with their healthcare team to create a personalized plan that caters to their specific needs and goals. With the proper support and care, melanoma survivors can enjoy healthy and fulfilling lives following treatment. Get started with The After Cancer

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from the pigment-producing cells in the skin called melanocytes. It is the most serious type of skin cancer and can spread quickly to other parts of the body if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and life after melanoma. Melanoma symptoms The most common sign of melanoma is a change in the appearance of a mole or pigmented area of the skin. It may be asymmetrical, have an irregular border, vary in color, and have a larger diameter than a pencil eraser. Other symptoms include the development of a new mole or a sore that does not heal. Melanoma diagnosis and treatment If melanoma is suspected, a biopsy will be performed to remove a sample of the affected skin for examination under a microscope. Additional tests may be needed to determine the stage of the cancer and if it has spread to other parts of the body. The treatment for melanoma depends on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. Early-stage melanoma is often treated with surgery to remove the cancerous skin cells, while advanced-stage melanoma may require more aggressive treatment. Life after melanoma After completing treatment for melanoma, patients will need to continue to monitor their skin for any changes and have regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider. It is important to protect the skin from the sun by wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen. Patients may also benefit from support groups or counseling to address any emotional or mental health concerns that may arise. If you have been diagnosed with melanoma or have concerns about your skin health, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider. The earlier melanoma is diagnosed, the better the chances of successful treatment and a positive outcome. Conclusion Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that requires prompt medical attention. Regular skin checks and sun protection are important for prevention, and early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes. With proper care and support, life after melanoma can be healthy and fulfilling. Get started with The After Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. However, with early detection and treatment, the survival rate for colorectal cancer is high. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, it’s important to understand the disease and the available treatments. Colorectal cancer symptoms and diagnosis Colon cancer and rectal cancer share many symptoms, which include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, but if you experience any of them, it’s important to talk to your doctor. The most common screening method for colon and rectal cancer is a colonoscopy. During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end to examine the colon and rectum for polyps or signs of cancer. Colorectal cancer treatment options Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Surgery is often the primary treatment for early-stage colorectal cancer, and it may be combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy. For advanced-stage colorectal cancer, chemotherapy and targeted therapy may be recommended. Immunotherapy may also be an option for certain types of colorectal cancer. Life after colorectal cancer After treatment for colorectal cancer, many patients are able to return to their normal activities. However, some may experience long-term side effects, such as bowel or sexual dysfunction, or the need for an ostomy bag. It’s important for survivors to take care of their mental and physical health, which may include counseling or support groups, a healthy diet, and regular exercise. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, know that there are many resources available to you. Talk to your doctor about your options and reach out to cancer support groups for additional help and support. Get started with The After Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women in the United States. Survivors of colorectal cancer may face physical, emotional, and psychological challenges after completing treatment. Here is what you need to know about life after colorectal cancer, including coping strategies, recovery tips, and support resources. Coping with life after colorectal cancer Coping with life after colorectal cancer can be overwhelming. Patients may experience a range of emotions, including anxiety, fear, depression, and uncertainty about the future. Here are some coping strategies that can help: Seek support: Talking with loved ones, joining a support group, or seeing a therapist can help patients process their emotions and find a sense of community. Manage symptoms: Colorectal cancer survivors may experience symptoms such as bowel changes, fatigue, and pain. Working with healthcare providers to manage these symptoms can help improve quality of life. Practice self-care: Taking time for self-care activities such as meditation, yoga, or hobbies can help promote relaxation and reduce stress. Address body image concerns: Colorectal cancer treatment can affect a patient's physical appearance, and this may impact their self-esteem. Connecting with support groups or speaking with a counselor can help patients navigate these feelings. Recovery after colorectal cancer treatment Recovering from colorectal cancer treatment can take time. Patients may experience side effects from treatment that persist for weeks, months, or even years. Here are some tips to help with recovery: Follow up with healthcare providers: Regular follow-up visits with healthcare providers can help monitor for recurrence, manage side effects, and address any new concerns. Practice good nutrition: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help support recovery and overall health. Stay on top of screenings: Patients should continue to follow recommended colorectal cancer screening guidelines to detect any potential recurrence early. Consider pelvic floor therapy: Pelvic floor therapy can help patients regain strength, mobility, and function after colorectal cancer treatment. Support resources for colorectal cancer survivors Colorectal cancer survivors may benefit from a range of support resources, including: Support groups: Local and online support groups can provide a sense of community and connection with others who have gone through similar experiences. Mental health resources including counseling and support groups. Survivorship programs that provide education, resources, and support for survivors and their families. Conclusion Life after colorectal cancer can be challenging, but with the right support and resources, patients can successfully navigate the post-treatment period. Coping strategies, recovery tips, and support resources can all help promote physical, emotional, and psychological well-being for colorectal cancer survivors. Each patient's experience with colorectal cancer is unique, and there is no one correct way to handle it. Patients should collaborate with their healthcare team to create a personalized plan that caters to their specific needs and goals. Get started with The After Cancer

Being diagnosed with lung cancer can be a life-altering event. The physical, emotional, and psychological impact of the disease can take a significant toll on patients and their families. After completing treatment, patients may face a new set of challenges as they adjust to life after lung cancer. Here is what you need to know about life after lung cancer, including coping strategies, recovery tips, and support resources. Coping with life after lung cancer Coping with life after lung cancer can be a daunting task. Patients may experience a range of emotions, including anxiety, fear, depression, and uncertainty about the future. Here are some coping strategies that can help: Seek support: Talking with loved ones, joining a support group, or seeing a therapist can help patients process their emotions and find a sense of community. Manage symptoms: Lung cancer survivors may experience a range of symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and pain. Working with healthcare providers to manage these symptoms can help improve quality of life. Stay active: Regular physical activity can help improve energy levels, manage stress, and promote overall well-being. Patients should work with their healthcare team to develop an exercise plan that is safe and appropriate for their needs. Practice self-care: Taking time for self-care activities such as meditation, yoga, or hobbies can help promote relaxation and reduce stress. Recovery after lung cancer treatment Recovering from lung cancer treatment can be a slow and gradual process. Patients may experience side effects from treatment that persist for weeks, months, or even years. Here are some tips to help with recovery: Follow up with healthcare providers: Regular follow-up visits with healthcare providers can help monitor for recurrence, manage side effects, and address any new concerns. Practice good nutrition: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help support recovery and overall health. Stay on top of screenings: Patients should continue to follow recommended lung cancer screening guidelines to detect any potential recurrence early. Consider pulmonary rehabilitation: Pulmonary rehabilitation programs can help patients improve lung function and manage respiratory symptoms. Support resources for lung cancer survivors Lung cancer survivors may benefit from a range of support resources, including: Support groups: Local and online support groups can provide a sense of community and connection with others who have gone through similar experiences. Mental health resources including counseling and support groups. Survivorship programs that provide education, resources, and support for survivors and their families. Conclusion Life after lung cancer can be challenging, but with the right support and resources, patients can successfully navigate the post-treatment period. Coping strategies, recovery tips, and support resources can all help promote physical, emotional, and psychological well-being for lung cancer survivors. Remember that each patient's experience is unique, and there is no right or wrong way to navigate life after lung cancer. Patients should work with their healthcare team to develop a personalized plan that meets their individual needs and goals. Get started with The After Cancer

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lungs and can spread to other parts of the body. It is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, but early detection and treatment can improve survival rates. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and life after lung cancer. Lung cancer symptoms The early stages of lung cancer may not show any symptoms, but as the cancer grows, it may cause: Persistent cough Chest pain Shortness of breath Wheezing Hoarseness Coughing up blood Loss of appetite Fatigue Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment If lung cancer is suspected, the doctor may recommend tests, such as: Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to look for abnormalities in the lungs Sputum cytology: A sample of mucus coughed up from the lungs is examined under a microscope for cancer cells Biopsy: A sample of tissue is removed from the lung to be examined under a microscope for cancer cells The treatment for lung cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and other factors. The most common treatments are: Surgery: If the cancer is small and has not spread, the doctor may remove it with surgery. Radiation therapy: High-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill cancer cells. Immunotherapy: Drugs that help the body's immune system to attack cancer cells. Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific genetic mutations in cancer cells. Life after lung cancer After lung cancer treatment, it is important to continue follow-up care with the doctor. The patient may experience physical and emotional changes, such as: Fatigue Shortness of breath Anxiety or depression Changes in appetite or taste Difficulty with daily activities The patient may also need support from family, friends, or support groups to cope with the changes and adjust to life after cancer. In conclusion, lung cancer is a serious disease that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Knowing the symptoms and getting regular check-ups with the doctor can improve survival rates. After treatment, follow-up care and support can help the patient adjust to life after cancer. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of lung cancer, please consult your doctor. Get started with The After Cancer

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a life-altering event. While cancer treatment is crucial for fighting the disease, it can also take a toll on the body and mind. After completing treatment, cancer survivors may need ongoing care and support to manage their physical and emotional well-being. That's where after cancer care comes in. What to expect in after cancer care After cancer care typically involves regular follow-up visits with your healthcare team to monitor your health and address any concerns that arise. Here's what you can expect: Regular follow-up appointments: Depending on the type of cancer and the stage of the disease, you may need to see your healthcare team for follow-up appointments every few months or once a year. Monitoring for recurrence: Your healthcare team will monitor you for signs of cancer recurrence, such as blood tests, imaging tests, and physical exams. Management of ongoing side effects: You may experience ongoing side effects from cancer treatment, such as fatigue, pain, or chemofog. Your healthcare team can help manage these side effects and improve your quality of life. Support for emotional and psychological well-being: After cancer treatment, many survivors experience anxiety, depression, or other emotional and psychological challenges. Your healthcare team can provide support and resources to help you manage these challenges. How to manage after cancer care Managing after cancer care can feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to stay on top of your health and well-being: Keep all follow-up appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring your health and detecting any potential recurrence early. Communicate with your healthcare team: If you have concerns about your health or side effects from treatment, don't hesitate to communicate with your healthcare team. Take care of your physical health: Eating a healthy diet, staying active, and getting enough sleep can help support your physical health and reduce the risk of recurrence. Take care of your emotional and psychological well-being: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction, such as meditation, yoga, or hobbies. Consider joining a support group or seeing a therapist to help manage emotional and psychological challenges. Conclusion After cancer care is a critical component of cancer survivorship. By staying on top of your health and well-being, and working closely with your healthcare team, you can manage the physical and emotional challenges that may arise after cancer treatment. Remember, every cancer survivor's experience is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to after cancer care. Get started with The After Cancer

Chemo and radiotherapy recovery Recovering from cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy and radiotherapy, can be a challenging and arduous process. These treatments, while crucial in fighting the disease, often come with a range of physical, emotional, and psychological side effects that can impact a person's well-being. Chemotherapy, for instance, can cause fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and weakened immune function. Radiotherapy, on the other hand, can lead to skin problems, fatigue, and localized pain. These treatments can also affect emotional well-being, causing anxiety, depression, and changes in body image. How to begin recovering from cancer Give yourself time: It's important to recognize that recovery takes time and varies for each individual. Be patient with yourself and allow your body and mind to heal at their own pace. Set realistic expectations and avoid comparing your progress to others’. Follow medical recommendations: Adhere to your healthcare provider's instructions regarding medications, follow-up appointments, and lifestyle changes. They can provide valuable guidance on managing side effects and optimizing your recovery. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Focus on nourishing your body through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep. Consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to develop a tailored plan that addresses your specific needs. Seek emotional support: Coping with the emotional toll of cancer treatment is crucial for recovery. Reach out to supportive friends, family members, or join support groups where you can share experiences and receive empathy and understanding. Therapists or counselors specialized in cancer care can also provide valuable guidance. Post cancer care Regular follow-up care: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. These visits help monitor your recovery progress, address any concerns, and detect any potential recurrence or new health issues early on. Practice self-care: Engage in activities that promote your overall well-being. This may include hobbies, mindfulness exercises, relaxation techniques, or pursuing creative outlets. Taking care of your mental and emotional health is as important as physical recovery. Stay informed: Educate yourself about the long-term effects of cancer treatment and potential late side effects. Understanding what to expect can help you proactively manage and address any ongoing challenges. Recovering from cancer treatment can be a demanding and multifaceted process. The physical, emotional, and psychological impact of treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy can make the journey challenging. However, by giving yourself time, following medical recommendations, embracing a healthy lifestyle, seeking emotional support, and prioritizing post-cancer care, you can gradually regain your strength, resilience, and overall well-being. Remember, you are not alone, and with the right support and self-care, you can navigate the path to recovery successfully. Get started with The After Cancer

The power of giving Volunteering offers cancer survivors an opportunity to give back to their communities, make a positive impact, and find a renewed sense of purpose. Engaging in acts of service can provide a sense of fulfillment, boost self-esteem, and contribute to overall well-being. By sharing your experience and providing support to others, you can inspire hope, resilience, and empathy. Find the right opportunity When considering volunteering opportunities, you should identify causes or organizations that align with your passions and interests. This could involve volunteering at cancer support centers, hospitals, advocacy groups, or community organizations. By leveraging your personal experience, you can offer valuable insights, emotional support, and practical guidance to individuals currently battling cancer or their caregivers. Keep caring about yourself While volunteering is a meaningful endeavor, it's important to prioritize self-care. Balancing personal well-being with volunteer commitments is crucial to avoid burnout. Set realistic boundaries, establish a manageable schedule, and communicate openly about your needs and limitations. Take time for self-reflection, engage in activities that bring joy, and seek support from loved ones or professionals when needed. Volunteering can be a transformative experience, allowing you to give back and find purpose beyond your own journey. By leveraging your unique perspective, you can offer support, inspiration, and hope to others facing similar challenges. It's essential to find the right volunteer opportunity that resonates with your personal interests and to prioritize self-care along the way. Embracing the power of giving while caring for oneself can lead to a fulfilling and impactful volunteering experience for cancer survivors. Get started with The After Cancer

Before Jennifer Dickenson was diagnosed with brain cancer, she was a busy and stressed-out lawyer. With two elementary school-aged children and a supportive husband, she vowed to do everything she could to improve her odds. She wrote a book called "A Case for Hope" to share her learnings about restoring health. Making changes in our lives that support health I believe we can heal many kinds of illnesses if we are willing to make fundamental changes in our lives that support health instead of degrading it. As a result of my health journey fighting brain cancer, grade 4 (glioblastoma), I discovered that using healing techniques, mind, body, and spirit, can be critical when it comes to supporting health and wellbeing. My basic premise is that if we can get sick, why can’t we also become well again. The evidence is right in front of us as we do this all the time. When we get a cold, for example, we drink more water or tea, we have more soup and healthier foods to eat, we stay in bed and get more rest and then we start feeling better. Ultimately, we get back to our old selves once again. If you have a broken bone, the doctor might set the bone so it doesn’t move but typically, your body will do the healing. Your job will be to elevate your leg, be gentle with it and let the natural healing process happen. But so often, when we are diagnosed with a serious illness, we throw this wisdom out of the window and listen only to the doctor’s plan which might include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy or other strong medicine built to attend to the illness. Sometimes these protocols support slowing down the illness but not healing it outright. Our own role in healing Although I am ever grateful for the advances in care at the hands of our doctors, I do believe that traditional medical treatment is a portion of healing, not the sole source of how we can heal. It is my view that we have an important role to play in our own health if our goal is to create permanent healing, free of drugs or medicine. When I was diagnosed, I started to learn about individual tools that could help support my health. But something incredible happened. As I began to amass even more techniques, I realized that the aggregate of these tools was creating an undeniable path to health, wellness, and balance in my life. What an awakening that was! Flooding your body with positive healing approaches can help us heal better than not using them. The 4 key aspects of healing I now believe the key aspects of healing include: decreasing inflammation in the body (allowing your immune system to focus on threats that damage health), increasing your immune system ( so it can fight illness, bacteria, infection, and cancer), maintaining a balanced nervous system (so you remain calm and avoid inflammation and unhealthy thinking) and creating oxygenation in your body which supports blood flow to your cells, tissues, and organs. The usage of mind, body, and spirit are the conduits for these key healing systems. Examples include clean water, quality sleep, clean food, breathing techniques, meditation, qigong, joyfulness, music, reducing judgment, creating perspective, exploring faith and our souls…just to name a few. In these cases, studies have shown a direct correlation between the usage of these tools toward positive health outcomes. Because these changes can make us feel so good, and impact our health profoundly, it’s not hard to maintain this path permanently- in fact, that’s the goal. Two final points to think about when it comes to healing 1) If someone is dealing with a health challenge, only that person can make the fundamental changes that can move them from illness to wellness. No one can engage your will except for you; and, 2) For those who are dealing with illness (cancer or other illnesses), there is a timing element regarding healing that doesn’t apply to healthy people that are simply exploring this healing path. If you are ill now, even with your doctor’s protocol, it will be important to start incorporating as many of these tools as possible. Even though these tools are supportive of health, you should check with your doctor any time you make significant changes to your health that might contradict a program you are following with your doctor. There are many opportunities to improve your situation when it comes to health. I encourage you to stay curious and open to what may be possible for you. Get started with The After Cancer

Donna is a former Hospice Social Worker, a former Elder Law Attorney, and an ovarian cancer survivor. Her website www.survivingtoflourishing.net is coming soon. All of my life I have been a master planner. So when I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, my preparation skills kicked into high gear. I researched how diet could help with the side effects of chemo. I purchased special skincare products aimed at chemo patients to protect my skin and cookbooks for recipes that help with side effects. I cooked. I had a freezer full of nourishing soups ready before each round of chemo. I drank mineral broth both before, during, and after chemo. Did it work? Who knows? Fortunately, except for round four of six, my side effects were tolerable. What I was not prepared for was the aftermath of emotions once I got the coveted “No Evidence of Disease” (NED) after my first scan. At first, I was overwhelmed with relief and gratitude about the scan results. I was shocked that my aggressive ovarian cancer was quelled for now. What I was not prepared for, was the wave of emotions after my scan results. As a social worker who helped clients through grief for almost a decade, I should have been aware that I was in a state of shock and survival during chemo and that it would only be after the shock wore off, i.e., after treatment, that I would deal with the emotional upheaval of everything that I went through. But I didn’t remember that and I didn’t apply it to myself so when the flood of emotions occurred, I was caught off guard. Boy did the emotions flood in, like a tidal wave. I was hurt by the people that didn’t even bother to reach out with a simple “thinking about you” while I was diagnosed and going through treatment. The hurt came out as anger. It didn’t matter that I had an amazing support group that got me through. I was angry at those who ignored me during my time of need when I was there for them during their time of need. I didn’t know then that it was so common for cancer patients to be forgotten or ignored by their friends and family. Not that it makes it okay, it is just comforting to know that it’s not personal to you. Most of all, I felt lost. I remember sobbing in my Oncology Nurse Practitioner’s office. I knew I should be happy, there were so many people in the room just next door hoping for my results, but I was not happy and I felt guilty about it. I didn’t know who I was anymore. I physically could not do many of the things that I did before. I was having trouble word finding and remembering. I couldn’t fathom that this would be my life now. I was reluctant to go to therapy for a while even though I knew I needed it. I was the therapist and caregiver, not the patient. I eventually relented because I knew that what I was doing by myself was not working and that I needed help. Therapy helped me tremendously to process the trauma of facing my own mortality. For me, it was a why me, but it’s not what you think. It wasn’t why did I get cancer, that was not a question I ever asked. It was a why am I responding to treatment when I had a dear friend with the same cancer who wasn’t responding? Survivor guilt is real among cancer survivors. I had to work through those feelings of guilt and accept that everyone’s body is different, everyone responds to treatment differently, and that there really are no answers to that “Why me?” question. Cancer teaches you to live in the unknown. Therapy also helped me understand that sometimes people not responding to you has nothing to do with you. Maybe they don’t know what to say. Or maybe your cancer journey brings up things for them they are not ready to face. I have learned to forgive, most of the time, and to move on. Forgiveness has allowed the anger to subside and now it is much easier to focus on what is in front of me and all of the things and wonderful people in my life that I have to be grateful for. The biggest adjustment has been learning to accept my new limitations. While therapy was working, I was still struggling. I discovered Epic Experience during a Google search. Their mission is to empower adult cancer survivors and thrivers to live beyond cancer. I watched their YouTube video, cried, and immediately knew I had to apply to their adventure camp for survivors. I was fortunate enough to attend camp this past winter. Camp pushed me to do things physically that I wasn’t sure I could do, but mostly it helped me to accept that I can do things, just maybe at a slower pace than others. And that is okay. Camp allowed me to embrace the life that I have. Focusing on what I can still do instead of what I can’t do helps me remain positive. While I still have physical limitations due to stamina and fatigue, I now give myself permission to rest instead of feeling guilty about the need to rest. I still have trouble word finding and remembering, but it is improved. My healing is definitely a work in progress, but most days, I am happy. And I definitely don’t take a moment of being alive for granted. I am not sure if knowing the tumultuous storm that comes after treatment would have helped. I am not sure that there is any way to prepare for that. I am just grateful that I had a care team that was as supportive after treatment as they were during treatment and that I was able to get the care I needed to start to heal the emotional upheaval that is cancer. Get started with The After Cancer

Jenn is the Founder of Warrior Heart Wisdom, a holistic healing practice where she serves as a Spiritual Development Coach, Healing Guide, Intuitive Wellness Coach, and Energy Healer to clients around the globe. She also hosts empowering, healing retreats. You can learn more at www.warriorheartwisdom.com. Being diagnosed as a high-school senior When you envision your senior year of high school, you typically think of prom, preparing for college, and enjoying the last moments of youthful freedom before moving into adulthood. The last thing that I expected to face was cancer. Yet, I was diagnosed with metastasized Thyroid Cancer only a few weeks into the start of the school year. My treatment plan included aggressive surgery, and radiation, in hopes that I would walk away with a positive prognosis for a long life. And that I did. But I also walked away with the painful, scary memory of having been a cancer patient, facing my mortality, changes to my physical body, and the fear of recurrence. Everyone celebrates the moment you are declared cancer free; few talk about the lasting effects that cancer has on your body, your mind, and your spirit. Like many, I couldn’t run away from my cancer experience quick enough, hoping to never look back. However, for years I was plagued with a myriad of symptoms that grew until I could no longer ignore them. Anxiety, depression, fatigue, insomnia, gut problems, and topping the list, the pain, and tightness in my neck, and shoulders where the cancer had been. I thought to myself, “What was the point of surviving cancer if this is what life is going to be like?” This less-than-ideal state of being pushed me to seek help. I tried talk therapy, medication, and other traditional approaches. After ample time, and little change, doctors were out of options, and I was left feeling defeated. So, I began to look for other ways of healing. I recalled my grandmother using complementary, and holistic modalities to stay free from bladder cancer for 15 years. I began taking care of my physical body with diet, supplements, and movement. I noticed some small changes, but my symptoms still lingered. I continued to dig deeper and came across an article that talked about the effects of trauma. That word, trauma, scared me but something told me to read on. The Trauma of Cancer & Its Effect on the Body Only 4 paragraphs in and I had chills. It was all beginning to make sense. I was shocked to learn that any type of trauma, big or small, physical, mental, or emotional, leaves an imprint on our body, our mind, and our spirit. When trauma feels overwhelming or we do not have the proper support, we will suppress it. This happens on a subconscious level, so we’re not aware that we’re doing it but the effects are palpable: Our body gets stuck in a state of stress with tight and painful muscles, fascia, and tissues Our nervous system gets stuck in a perpetual fight, flight, or freeze state Our mind gets stuck in a constant state of worry Our spirit feels deflated Over time this drains our energy, depletes our health, and can lead to a variety of symptoms such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, gut problems, insomnia, and the list goes on. After more in-depth research on healing the body from trauma, I turned to massage therapy. The Power of Healing Touch As luck would have it, I happened across a massage therapist named Hope who specialized in neuromuscular reprogramming and trauma release. She had a calm, nurturing energy and greeted me with a warm and welcoming hug. Before getting on the massage table, she listened intently to my story and my struggles. Before beginning the massage, she explained that the body cannot be forced to relax or heal. You must slowly and gently work with it, to help it feel safe enough to let go. This approach was a far cry from being prodded, and poked during cancer treatment. Hope told me that our body holds our story; this is also explained in the New York Times best-seller The Body Keeps Score. A great reference book if you are looking to learn more. I could immediately feel a drop in my anxiety when Hope put her hands on me. It felt like she was communicating with my body; sensing things on another level. As she approached my neck, the site of my cancer, and where I had experienced debilitating pain, and tension, she asked if she had permission to touch this area. I had guarded this area so tightly, yet in her presence I felt safe and agreed. As she touched my neck very gently, tears began to flow from my eyes. I didn’t know exactly what was happening, all I knew is that when I left the session, I felt different, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I continued to see Hope regularly. Part by part, she guided my body in telling its story, in releasing the fear it was holding onto, and ultimately returning to a state of ease, and balance. This experience gave me the first-hand knowledge that while an experience like cancer can negatively impact the body, healing touch and other holistic modalities can help return the body to wellness, and balance. It gave me great hope that the effects of cancer are not a life sentence, yet an experience to learn from, and to find great strength, and self-love through. Get started with The After Cancer