Ending treatment: On the way to a new life

Here, from someone who has been there, is some guidance on finding your way, physically and emotionally, as you make the transition from being a patient receiving treatment to being a breast cancer survivor.  

Finding your “new normal”
It will take time to find your “new normal.” Many women desperately try to return to their life exactly as it was before.  Family and friends may encourage you to do the same. But in fact, having breast cancer is a life-altering experience. You’re a different person than you were before; you now have a different perspective on life and your place in it than you had before you heard the words “You have breast cancer.” Your body is still adjusting to the side effects of treatment—effects that for some can last months or even years. You needn’t dwell on them, but recognize that they exist and are a part of you for now. Communicate to your family and friends that you are going through a period when you’re seeking emotional healing. You need their patience and support.

Setting a healthy course
Losing your health for a while is an opportunity to reassess your lifestyle and ensure that you’re doing everything you can to be and remain healthy. That doesn’t mean you should become obsessive about diet and exercise. But at least take a look at your lifestyle and begin to make changes where needed. For sure, stop smoking if you do smoke, and try to avoid secondhand smoke. Incorporate an exercise routine into your weekly activities, eat a well-balanced diet (yes, you can still have chocolate cheesecake on special occasions), and reduce stresses that can weaken your immune system. Meditation is good for reducing stress; so is dancing if that’s your style.

Try to find a sense of balance in your life. Were you working crazy hours before you were diagnosed? Take a look at your schedule now. Are you making time for family? And time for yourself, to refresh and regenerate your energy?

Spacing out doctor visits
Plan your doctor appointments so that they’re not bundled together. It may be easier on your schedule to take one day off from work and see your surgeon in the morning and medical oncologist and radiation oncologist in the afternoon. But from the perspective of monitoring your breast health, this isn’t wise. Space out appointments so that you have a doctor’s visit every couple of months. That way your healthcare team is keeping tabs on you at reasonable intervals. It’s good for your peace of mind as well.

Still worrying about breast cancer every day? If you find yourself doing a breast self-exam in the shower every morning and becoming anxious about every ache and pain, it may be time to see a counselor. There’s nothing wrong with getting expert help. Ask your oncologist for a recommendation.

One of the best ways to regain your emotional health is to help others you care about. Inspire your female friends and family to be smart about their breast health. This includes making sure they get an annual mammogram and have clinical breast exams. There’s no better way to spend a vacation day than with a friend who is frightened about getting her mammogram. As you know very well, you may be helping to save her life.