Cancer Survivorship: Life After Cancer Treatment
Cancer Survivorship is a journey that many individuals and families have to take. Adapting to life after a diagnosis, treatment and recovery from cancer, is a difficult and often unpredictable journey.
Who is a Cancer Survivor?
A Cancer Survivor is someone who has been diagnosed with cancer and has gone through the treatment process to recover. They may have been in remission for a long time or may still be undergoing treatment. Cancer survivors often face and overcome the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that come with cancer. As the Best Cancer Hospital in Pune, we believe cancer survivors are a source of inspiration for those going through similar experiences, as they show that it is possible to beat cancer.
Phases Of Cancer Survivorship
Cancer survivorship can be divided into three phases that reflect the different experiences and needs of cancer survivors at different points in their journey.
Acute Survivorship: This phase typically starts at the time of diagnosis and extends through the completion of treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. As the treatment progresses, the focus is on fighting cancer.
Extended Survivorship: This phase begins when treatment is completed and lasts for an extended period after treatment. During this time, survivors may experience physical, emotional, and practical challenges as they adjust to life beyond cancer. They may also receive ongoing medical monitoring and care to manage any after-effects of cancer or its treatment.
Permanent Survivorship: This phase begins after treatment has ended and continues for the rest of a survivor’s life. During this time, survivors may continue to receive medical follow-up, but the focus is on long-term health and well-being. This phase also highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing after-effects.
It’s important to note that not all cancer survivors will fall under these phases, and the experience of survivorship can vary greatly from patient to patient. Nevertheless, these phases provide a general understanding of the cancer survivorship journey and the support needed at different stages.
Daily Life After Cancer
Getting back to daily life after surviving cancer can be both a challenging and rewarding experience. For many cancer survivors, returning to normal activities bring a sense of accomplishment and refreshed purpose in life. However, it’s also common for survivors to face a range of physical, and emotional challenges as they adjust to life beyond cancer.
Physical Challenges: Survivors may experience physical symptoms, such as fatigue, pain, and changes in the body that can affect their ability to do things they once took for granted.
Emotional Challenges: They may also face emotional challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or a sense of loss or grief, as they come to terms with their cancer experience.
Practical Challenges: Activities such as returning to work, managing finances, and maintaining relationships, can also amplify difficulties.
Advice From The Best Cancer Hospital in Pune
Cancer Survivors need to understand that the journey of survivorship can be unpredictable and may take time. Some survivors may find that they can resume their daily activities and routines with relative ease, while others may need to make adjustments or seek support. In general, support from family, friends, and healthcare providers can be essential in helping survivors navigate the challenges of getting back to daily life after surviving cancer. With time, patience, and persistence, many cancer survivors can find a new normal easily and adapt to the new life!
We have a team of the Best Oncologist in Pune, experienced doctors, and nurses, who work together to provide comprehensive care for each patient, from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up. We provide personalized care plans tailored to each individual’s needs, enabling them to live life with hope and optimism. We are proud of our record of helping many patients successfully navigate their cancer journey and experience survivorship!
