Life is a precious gift, and cancer patients and survivors know this more than anyone else. Over the years, I have surveyed thousands of cancer patients and survivors from all parts of the globe, who have shared their experiences and wisdom in a series of responses to a number of survey questions about life. Through these surveys, individuals shared their insights on what their illness has taught them about life, what advice they would give to their younger selves, and how they would encourage someone feeling like giving up on life, amongst other key life-related areas.
This article contains just a very brief summary of insights from a small number of cancer patients and survivors who provided their valuable insights and support for those facing any type of adversity in their lives.
One patient, who passed away in late 2020 from oesophageal cancer, shared that their illness taught them about the certainty of death and the importance of appreciating life. They advised their younger self to live in the moment instead of always planning for the future. When asked about advice for someone feeling like giving up on life, they suggested finding the positive in every situation and focusing on what they have instead of what they lack. The worst thing about cancer, according to this patient, was the constant battle in their mind about every action they took and the feeling of isolation despite having supportive family and friends. The meaning of life, for them, was to be mindful and make the most of the time they have on earth.
Another survey respondent, a colon cancer survivor from Canada, emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive attitude in the face of cancer. She believed that while medicine can take care of the physical aspects of cancer, one must also win the mental battle. She advised her younger self and others to live life to the fullest, as we do not live forever. To those who felt like giving up, she encouraged them to embrace the love surrounding them whilst also suggesting that complaining keeps us stuck in inaction, so we must take both action and a chance on ourselves.
Another breast cancer survivor from Georgia, USA, stated that her life did not stop because of cancer or treatments. She advised her younger self and others to keep moving, explore and better self with every opportunity that comes their way. To those who felt like giving up, she encouraged them to keep going because they have more to offer than they know. She also emphasized that through the cancer journey, she discovered a better version of herself.
An endometriosis cancer survivor I surveyed urged everyone to appreciate everything in life, both the good and the bad. She advised her younger self and others to see and notice everything, find beauty in life, and to live every minute because we only get to live once.
A tongue cancer patient shared that their illness had taught them not to take their health for granted. Every healthy moment is a gift, and it’s crucial to appreciate life in the present moment. They’d also advise their younger self not to worry too much and enjoy the life they have, while they have it. For someone who felt like giving up on life, she encouraged them to focus on the good moments and breathe through the bad ones.
An ovarian cancer patient from New Jersey, USA shared that their illness taught them to keep marching forward one day at a time and to cultivate gratitude and positivity. To their younger self, they advised living boldly and passionately without fear of what others might think. When asked about advice for someone feeling like giving up on life, they recommended focusing on the love and support of those around them and finding something positive to hold onto each day. The worst thing about cancer for this participant was the emotional and mental toll it took on them and their family, especially not being able to take care of their young children. The meaning of life, for them, was to prioritize family, human connection, love of nature, and gratitude for what they have.
For many surveyed, the worst things about cancer were the physical side effects of treatment, the PTSD, and the loss of their careers and valuable relationships. However, they also shared that cancer taught them valuable lessons and gave them a new appreciation for life. One patient even described their cancer as a “gift” that allowed them to wake up to their true self and see the world in a brighter light.
The words above are just from a very small sample of the thousands of cancer patients globally who have participated in this project. There’s no question that cancer can be a challenging, difficult and life-changing experience, but the stories and advice of cancer patients and survivors can offer valuable insights and support for those facing adversity. Cancer patients and survivors have much wisdom to share about life, and their words can encourage us to appreciate every healthy moment, focus on the positives, and believe in our ability to overcome challenging times, enabling us to live and experience every minute because life is precious. These individuals offer a valuable perspective on the battles they have faced and encourage others to keep moving forward.
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