| 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 longer | | | | normally led by a doctor, counselor, psychiatrist, or |
| needed, the ordeal has come to an end. But, this is | | | | social institution. Being a part of a group can be |
| far from true. Cancer is a life-changing disease and | | | | comforting and give you hope because its members |
| returning to a normal life after treatment is very | | | | know and understand what you have been through. |
| difficult. As a cancer survivor, you are probably | | | | You can talk about your fears, listen to survival |
| exhausted, afraid, depressed, have trouble sleeping | | | | stories, and get tips on how to deal with your life |
| or performing the simplest tasks. The key to healing | | | | after cancer. Ask your doctor or hospital about a |
| is gradually regaining control of your life, step by step. | | | | support group in your area. There are also many |
| Try focusing on the fact that you emerged | | | | online support groups with cancer survivors from |
| victorious in the battle against cancer. And if you can | | | | around the world. If you prefer a more individual |
| do that, you can do ANYTHING. | | | | approach, you could see a counsellor or a therapist to |
| Tackle each day at a time. Make a conscious effort | | | | help you cope with your feelings. Most importantly |
| to appreciate the little things. Indulge in a hobby that | | | | look for support in your friends and family. Talk to |
| will occupy your mind like gardening, listening to | | | | them and let them know your fears, what your are |
| music, learning pottery or art or how to play a | | | | going through and what should they do. Many times |
| musical instrument, writing poetry, cooking. Make | | | | families are confused about what they should do. A |
| exercise a part of your daily routine. If strength | | | | strong support group can help you steer through |
| permits, walk, jog, swim, go hiking, ride a bike, or just | | | | your cancer aftermath and emerge a winner - which |
| fool around with the kids. If possible, join a volunteer | | | | you really are, you have survived cancer! |
| program at one of the NGOs in your city. Helping | | | | It's tough getting back on your feet again. Give |
| those less fortunate than yourself will give your life a | | | | yourself time and space to heal and remember that |
| sense of purpose. | | | | the worst is behind you. |