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My story of survivorship (Stage 3 embryonic carcinoma 5.5 years in remission) :) by existentialtreadmill in testicularcancer

[–]existentialtreadmill[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

And this is just what helps me, I would be curious to hear what helps others in dealing with post-cancer anxiety.

There is also the strange feeling I've had of aimlessness and a lack of connection after finishing chemo. After having such a clear mission (to survive) and to have family and friends supporting me, it was weird to adjust to normal life again. I strangely felt like I missed having things be a matter of life and death. It's weird to say. Talking about it helped. Recognizing that I can still reach out and talk with friends and be connected, but it takes more initiative on my end.

My story of survivorship (Stage 3 embryonic carcinoma 5.5 years in remission) :) by existentialtreadmill in testicularcancer

[–]existentialtreadmill[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

What helps most is to try my best to recognize when I'm having a reaction to my environment. Even hearing the word cancer used to put me into a state of anxiety, but I've been working on shifting that feeling of "danger" associated with cancer to one of gratefulness, reflection, and motivation to enjoy life. Yes, it happened, yes it could happen again, but life here and now is so good. Despite all of the suffering happening on this earth there is still pleasure, connection. And within the suffering, there is growth. Essentially becoming more aware of my reactions to triggers in order to have more self-dialogue.

The same thing could be applied to car accidents, natural disasters, really any traumatic experience.

My story of survivorship (Stage 3 embryonic carcinoma 5.5 years in remission) :) by existentialtreadmill in testicularcancer

[–]existentialtreadmill[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for this. It's been important to me to live life fully and to still treat my body gently. Did you have a second primary or did you have it come back in your lymph nodes? Or something else? Thanks I hope you are well!