A Guide to Living With Cancer
In the United States, the lifetime risk for developing some form of cancer is roughly 42 percent for men and 40 percent for women. In other words, almost half of people will find themselves facing cancer at some point or another. That number isn’t meant to scare you, but rather impress upon you the importance of being prepared for whatever comes your way. Learning how to live with cancer – and thrive – can actually be one of the most useful and helpful things in your life.
8 Ways to Live Your Life With Cancer
Nobody wants cancer. However, if you speak with many people who have been through a cancer experience, they’ll tell you that it changed everything for them. It made them see the world – and their lives – through a totally different lens.
With this in mind, here are some suggestions to help you make the most of whatever you’re going through.
- Build a Support System
One of the most important things you can do when living with cancer is to surround yourself with a strong support system. This includes family, friends, healthcare providers, and support groups.
Sharing your journey with loved ones can alleviate feelings of isolation. They can provide emotional comfort, help you with daily tasks, or simply be there to listen. If you don’t feel comfortable leaning on friends or family, look into support groups where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
It may be helpful to find a support group that’s specific to the type of cancer you’re dealing with. For example, if it’s pleural mesothelioma, find a group for people who are dealing with pleural mesothelioma.
- Focus on Nutrition
Good nutrition is key for maintaining your strength and energy during cancer treatment. While your appetite and dietary needs may fluctuate, it’s important to find foods that work for you.
Incorporate nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your meals. If nausea or appetite loss makes eating difficult, try smaller, more frequent meals or bland, easy-to-digest foods. Hydration is also critical, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Working with a dietitian who specializes in oncology can be especially helpful. They can create a personalized plan tailored to your specific needs and treatment side effects.
- Stay Active When Possible
Physical activity, even in small amounts, can be incredibly beneficial for both your physical and mental health. Exercise helps reduce fatigue, improve mood, and maintain muscle strength – all of which are crucial when living with cancer.
The key is to listen to your body and find activities that match your energy level. This might mean taking short walks, practicing gentle yoga, or stretching at home. Even light movement can make a difference in how you feel.
- Manage Stress and Emotions
Cancer isn’t just a physical battle – it’s an emotional one, too. It’s normal to feel a range of emotions, including fear, anger, sadness, or even guilt. Acknowledging these feelings and finding healthy ways to cope with them is essential.
Mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling can help you process your emotions and reduce stress. Therapy or counseling with a professional who specializes in oncology-related issues can provide valuable tools for managing your mental health.
- Advocate for Yourself
When living with cancer, it’s important to be your own advocate. This means actively participating in your care, asking questions, and making sure your voice is heard.
Learn as much as you can about your diagnosis and treatment options so you can make informed decisions. If you don’t understand something, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for clarification. Bringing a trusted friend or family member to appointments can also help ensure you don’t miss important details.
If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Whether it’s a side effect, a treatment plan, or an unanswered question, your concerns are valid and deserve attention.
- Take Control of Your Schedule
Cancer treatments, doctor’s appointments, and side effects can quickly dominate your life. Taking control of your schedule can help you feel more organized and less overwhelmed.
Use a planner or calendar to track appointments, medication schedules, and other obligations. Block out time for self-care and rest, as these are just as important as medical treatments.
- Stay Open to New Treatments and Options
Cancer treatment is constantly evolving, with new therapies and clinical trials constantly emerging. Staying open to these possibilities can provide hope and options you might not have considered.
Talk to your doctor about whether you’re a candidate for innovative treatments, such as immunotherapy or targeted therapy. Clinical trials may also be an option if standard treatments aren’t effective for your type of cancer.
Living a Grateful Life With Cancer
While cancer can bring significant challenges, focusing on what you’re grateful for can help shift your perspective. Take a few moments each day to reflect on things you appreciate, whether it’s the support of a loved one, a sunny day, or a small personal victory. This is how you live life to the fullest – even with cancer.
