You just received the incredible news that every cancer patient wishes to hear “Your scans are clear, and you are cancer-free!”  You feel a sigh of relief followed by happiness, exhaustion, and SO many other emotions.  This was the exact day that you and your loved ones have waited so long for.  This was the news that you fought like hell for.  You are happy but feel a sense of hesitation and…. confusion?

If this sounds like you or a loved one, please know you are not alone.  Life post-cancer can be a very complicated time, especially the first year.  Your family, friends, coworkers, and even yourself expect things to return to normal with the snap of a finger.  It’s just not that simple.

Whether we like to admit it or not, cancer changes who we are forever.  Mentally.  Physically.  Emotionally.  You are different because of cancer.  Really that is the case for any hardship we each go through.  It molds who we are as a person.  And as we know, every individual will experience some sort of pain or trauma throughout their lifetime.

So how do we cope?

First, give yourself some grace in “getting back to normal”.  Your old normal is no longer your new normal and that is okay.  To help ease that blow, remember that your current normal is also not your future normal!  You will get physically and mentally stronger with time and effort along with lots of patience.

Next, allow yourself to feel all of the many emotions that are coming at you.  Fear, frustration, anger, loneliness – these are all common to experience in your post-cancer journey after the trauma you endured.

Lastly, find a strong support system.  Loved ones, online support groups, or a counselor are all great options to help you manage the confusing emotions post-cancer.

We are so proud of your strength through this journey, and you should be too.  Thanks for reading along and being a part of the CWC community.

With Love,

The Christmas Without Cancer Team