Cancer survivorship: a continual journey - by Dr. Tommy Bischoff, Ph.D., LMFT
Dr. Tommy Bischoff had been practicing as a therapist for 4 years when he was diagnosed with cancer. Read about his story and practice.
You want to believe it's over and put the cancer behind you, but can you? You may notice that you are paying a lot of attention to the aches and pains you are having in your body. You may feel like a "sitting duck." The doctor says you have no signs of cancer now, but can you be sure?
You may be wondering…
Will it come back?
What are the chances it will come back?
How will I know if it has come back?
What will I do if it comes back?
When will it come back?
When you began your cancer treatment, you couldn't wait for the day you'd finish. But now that you've completed your treatment, you aren't sure if you're ready for life as a cancer survivor. With your treatment completed, you'll likely see your cancer care team less often. Though you, your friends and your family are all eager to return to a more normal life, it can be scary to leave the protective cocoon of doctors and nurses who supported you through treatment.
Everything you're feeling right now is normal for cancer survivors. Recovering from cancer treatment isn't just about your body — it's also about healing your mind. So, take time to acknowledge the fear, grief and loneliness you're feeling right now. Then take steps to understand why you feel these emotions and what you can do about them.
Seeking for professional support from a therapist can help you in this process.