We’d like to thank everyone who joined us in celebrating National Cancer Survivors Day by participating in our “Share Your Pearls” contest! We asked survivors and co-survivors: What is the one piece of advice you learned from your cancer journey that you want to share with others facing cancer?
We were inspired by the pearls we received, and we value the variety of insight shared from across the country! While every individual cancer journey is unique, we hope you, too, are inspired by these tips from survivors and co-survivors.
- While being infused, visualize the chemo drugs clearing out all unhealthy things from your body, leaving you healthy and cancer free …the ultimate cleanse! And any unpleasant side effects? Think of them positively … that just means it’s working! Joanna *the winning pearl
- Never forget the power of touch.Every time my radiation oncologist saw me, she touched my hand or arm as we talked.That simple gesture let me know that I was a person to her, not just “orbital lymphoma,” my diagnosis.Her touch gave me courage. Susan
- Please see your dentist before you start your chemo treatments. I was not told this and found out the hard way. Vera
- If your chemo treatment results in loss of hair, get soft terry turbans because your scalp will be tender and sore. Save the wig for dressing up. Janet
- While maintaining normalcy and a level of activity that is right for you during cancer treatment is important, don’t deny yourself the time to rest and heal.Listen to your body and don’t hesitate to indulge in slowing down when you know you need to. Katharine
- If a metallic taste is bothering you during treatment, try switching to plastic cutlery.My mother struggled with taste during chemotherapy and, as a result, was losing weight. The dietitian at PearlPoint recommended she switch to plastic cutlery rather than metal so that foods would taste better.Once she did, her taste improved significantly and she was able to gain weight back. Susan H.
- Research your options, ask questions, listen to your doctor, choose the most aggressive treatment offered for the best possible outcome, rest and appreciate the life you have. Janet W.
To all survivors, we wish you a Happy National Cancer Survivors Day and celebrate your courageous journey!
Thank you for being a part of our community and for helping us create more confident cancer journeys for adults anytime, anywhere.
