5 Lessons Learned Five Years After Cancer Treatment

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As I sit in this waiting room, a place that once filled me with dread, I reflect on the five years since I completed my cancer treatment. The scent alone can still make my stomach churn, and I can’t help but feel empathy for everyone else who is waiting—wondering if they are facing a good day or a bad one.

December 20th marked the anniversary of my last chemotherapy session. My doctor had said to me, “You’re done! Go live your life!” Those words echoed in my head as I left his office, feeling both physically depleted and mentally overwhelmed. I had envisioned that once I hit the five-year milestone, I’d feel a sense of freedom, proudly embracing my title of “cancer survivor.” I thought I would no longer sweat the small stuff and would celebrate life with “F cancer” cupcakes, just like someone had suggested to me.

So here I am, sitting in this waiting room, anxious about what lies ahead. Have those five years brought the calm I anticipated? Not quite. The anxiety about recurrence and those phantom symptoms still linger. But amidst the uncertainty, I’ve gained a wealth of wisdom and life experience. I’ve watched loved ones endure their own struggles, become a mother of two beautiful children, and grown more adept in the business I started during my diagnosis.

Through it all, I’ve discovered that the common wisdom about surviving cancer holds true. While I still get frustrated over trivial matters—like not finding a parking spot at the gym or wishing I could eat whatever I wanted without gaining weight—I’ve also learned to appreciate the simplicity of everyday life. Each morning, waking up feeling good, making coffee, and driving my kids around fills me with gratitude. It’s unfortunate that such a profound life lesson often comes from hardship, but it’s a truth I now embrace.

Here are the five key lessons I’ve learned from my journey through cancer:

1. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff: Life is too short to waste time on trivial worries. Focus on what truly matters.
2. Control What You Can: While we can’t dictate everything that happens to us, we can control our reactions and choices. Prioritize what brings you joy and fulfillment.
3. The Importance of a Support System: Having a reliable support network is invaluable. It’s incredible to know there are people ready to help, whether it’s bringing you comfort items or managing the logistics of appointments and care.
4. Take Time to Pause: During my treatment, I learned to slow down and cherish the simple moments with my children. I realized that sometimes, the most meaningful experiences come from just being present.
5. Empathy for Others: You never know what someone else is going through. I learned to be kinder to others, recognizing that we all face our own battles, even if they aren’t visible.

While I hoped my journey would transform me into a perpetual optimist, I’ve realized that I still have my ups and downs. I’ve had my share of bad days and moments of doubt. However, I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Life may take unexpected turns, but each day is a chance to embrace what we love and prioritize our health.

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In summary, life after cancer can be unpredictable, but it’s essential to focus on what truly matters. Embrace each day, nurture your health, and cherish your loved ones.