By Jan Boal RN, CCN
The definition of cancer is explained as a disease in which abnormal cells divide uncontrollably and destroy body tissue. This can happen anywhere in the body. This very word, cancer, strikes fear in most of us. Even the strongest can be brought to their knees. The word cancer has been described as far back as in ancient Egyptian times. The good news is how far we have come with treatment and therapies to battle this disease. Some cancers are more curable than others.
Chemotherapy is not as harsh on the body with now less nausea and pain.
Treatment varies from just removal of a tumor to extensive treatment with surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. New therapies have come to light to aid in treatment. These can come as alternative care such as a strict diet, cannabis therapy, mushroom therapy, mind over matter, using positive thoughts and intentions.
There are more skin cancers from tanning booths and sun exposure than lung cancer from smoking, the two leading causes. More than half of all cancers are preventable. Long term exposure to sun and indoor tanning, smoking, obesity, high alcohol use and environmental, such as pesticides, are leading causes. Genetics come into play as well as in certain breast cancers. Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide.
For those who have endured the treatments and survived, it does not necessarily mean they don’t have lingering effects of this disease and it’s treatment. Cancer fatigue strikes many which can last for months or years. This is described as feeling tired, weak, slow and having no energy. This can lead to feelings of depression and hopelessness as there is no treatment for this. Being in remission doesn’t mean being free from these lingering effects.
This disease takes its toll not only on the patients, but loved ones and friends as well.Living in a state of flight or fight, high anxiety, adds to physical and emotional stress raising cortisol levels in our bodies. This can lead to significant health problems depleting our immune system. Facing the possibility of their mortality has an impact on all who are involved. Often patients express feelings of traumatic stress disorder from hearing their diagnosis and relieving it during support groups, therapies and speaking to family members. Spouses, children, parents, close friends all feel this extreme anxiety and panic. For some, it gives allowance to reexamine their life. What is important, mindfulness, being in the here and now, being in the moment are terms added to their vocabulary. Some though are so shocked and afraid they can become rigid, bitter, controlling and demanding. This is normal and a part of one’s grief process. Cancer is not just a disease of the body but of the psyche as well.
Statistics show that those afflicted with cancer who have a positive outlook, living a life in the best way possible, live longer than those who do not have support or live a hopeful life. That their quality of life is better for themselves and their family.
We are what we think about most of the time. Oncologist and their staff will encourage patients to do what brings them joy. Our cells literally change in their structure when we experience joy, love and happiness. Cells are pliable and our thoughts can determine their viability. We become healthier, our immune system stronger. Think Positive!
Anyone reading this article who has cancer or has a loved one or a friend with cancer, I encourage you to look up a local Cancer support group called
2Live2Cure.com. A nonprofit organization run by twin sisters. One is in recovery from her stage 4 breast cancer, the other cancer free. Their goal is to provide support and education that the medical field doesn’t offer. They raise funds for cancer care packets that they send out to those with this disease, free of charge.
To all those who are living with cancer and to those in recovery; I wish you the very best! Stay strong and stay positive. Laugh as much as you can and light up your cells.