Coping With Cancer: Give It Everything You’ve Got

Being dealt a diagnosis of cancer is shocking and life-shattering; prepare yourself to be as strong and empowered as possible. Look over the following ways you can make life better as you cope with cancer.

1. Do not go through this alone. Nobody should have to deal with cancer and treatments by themselves; avoid isolating yourself or shielding others from cancer. Have open discussions and let people feel, fear and cry. Understand what type of cancer you have and what’s going to happen in the future. You need people who love you by your side every step of the way.

2. Join forces with others who have cancer. Nothing helps more than having someone relate to you and knowing exactly what you are going through. Look for support groups or ask your doctor what collaborations have been formed by people like you. Talk to people ahead of you in treatment to have all of your questions answered; knowing can take a lot of the stress and fear out of it. Make friends and enjoy the pleasure of each other’s company.

3. Go out and enjoy yourself more. If you’re a fan of golf, take the time to get out on the course and have a little fun. If you’re a fan of sports, take in a game or two. Now is the time to make time for you; don’t be too busy or worried that you can’t enjoy life. A healthy attitude will strengthen you in your battle against cancer and help you through treatments; facilitate that attitude with daily fun, no matter what.

4. Take walks or plant a garden. Enjoying nature can be very relaxing and rewarding; get into nurturing a small garden or taking photographs on a beautiful trail. You need the fresh air and gentle exercise and a hobby can prove very distracting for you. Planting flowers means having a fresh bouquet on the kitchen table or growing tomatoes could mean fresh ingredients for your famous spaghetti sauce!

5. Seek spiritual guidance. Look for higher ground that will nurture your soul; find meaning and purpose beyond your front door. Go to whatever source will provide you with comfort and understanding of life and what is happening in yours. No matter what your religion or if you have none at all, find wisdom beyond yourself and let it heal and enlighten you.

6. Trust your team. If for any reason you’re not satisfied with your doctors or you feel you could be getting more from modern medicine, go for it. It’s your life and your body; you are in control. Many people have reported dramatic changes with a changing of the guard and even felt slighted or neglected by previous health care professionals. Find people you can believe in and trust them.

Nobody really knows what’s going on with you or what’s best for you like you do; equip yourself with knowledge and call upon your inner strength to guide you. Reach out to let others lift you whenever possible, and be as positive as you can be.