| Most people think that once the cancer has been | | | | Join a cancer support group. A support group is |
| treated and chemotherapy and surgery are no | | | | normally led by a doctor, counselor, psychiatrist, |
| longer needed, the ordeal has come to an end. | | | | or social institution. Being a part of a group can be |
| But, this is far from true. Cancer is a life-changing | | | | comforting and give you hope because its |
| disease and returning to a normal life after | | | | members know and understand what you have |
| treatment is very difficult. As a cancer survivor, | | | | been through. You can talk about your fears, |
| you are probably exhausted, afraid, depressed, | | | | listen to survival stories, and get tips on how to |
| have trouble sleeping or performing the simplest | | | | deal with your life after cancer. Ask your doctor |
| tasks. The key to healing is gradually regaining | | | | or hospital about a support group in your area. |
| control of your life, step by step. Try focusing on | | | | There are also many online support groups with |
| the fact that you emerged victorious in the battle | | | | cancer survivors from around the world. If you |
| against cancer. And if you can do that, you can | | | | prefer a more individual approach, you could see a |
| do ANYTHING. | | | | counsellor or a therapist to help you cope with |
| Tackle each day at a time. Make a conscious | | | | your feelings. Most importantly look for support in |
| effort to appreciate the little things. Indulge in a | | | | your friends and family. Talk to them and let |
| hobby that will occupy your mind like gardening, | | | | them know your fears, what your are going |
| listening to music, learning pottery or art or how | | | | through and what should they do. Many times |
| to play a musical instrument, writing poetry, | | | | families are confused about what they should do. |
| cooking. Make exercise a part of your daily | | | | A strong support group can help you steer |
| routine. If strength permits, walk, jog, swim, go | | | | through your cancer aftermath and emerge a |
| hiking, ride a bike, or just fool around with the | | | | winner - which you really are, you have survived |
| kids. If possible, join a volunteer program at one | | | | cancer! |
| of the NGOs in your city. Helping those less | | | | It's tough getting back on your feet again. Give |
| fortunate than yourself will give your life a sense | | | | yourself time and space to heal and remember |
| of purpose. | | | | that the worst is behind you. |