Cancer-Free: Life After Cancer Treatment

There are more than 17 million cancer survivors in the United States, largely thanks to revolutionary cancer treatments that didn’t exist just a few decades ago. Let’s talk about some of the main things that you can expect from here on out, and where you can go in Wooster for outstanding medical care so you can continue to stay healthy.

LONG-TERM WELLNESS AFTER SURVIVING CANCER

You will be encouraged by your doctor and other members of your healthcare team to gradually adopt a healthier lifestyle. Take your time, and make one change at a time. You may be tempted to make all of the recommended changes at once, but it will likely be easier to do things piecemeal. Achieve one goal, and then work toward the next.

Some of the recommendations may include the following:

• If you smoke, begin a smoking cessation program.
• Exercise three to five days a week doing things you enjoy (cycling, walking, swimming, etc.).
• Attain and/or maintain healthy body weight.
• Eat a low-fat, low-sugar, low-salt diet.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day every day.
• Keep your stress levels low.

You will also want to take any after-care medications as prescribed by your doctor. Be sure to keep your follow-up appointments so that your medical team can keep an eye on your health.

HOW DIFFERENT IS LIFE AFTER SURVIVING CANCER?

You can expect to experience a whirlwind of relief – and you might even feel a bit of survivor’s guilt. Many survivors of cancer, accidents, and other life-threatening situations tend to have feelings of guilt because they know that others haven’t been as lucky. This is normal.

Talk to your oncologist or any professional with whom you feel comfortable, about your feelings. Most people in your situation overcome these feelings by deciding to have an attitude of gratefulness and thankfulness. However, it is still important to talk to your health professional.

MEDICAL PARTNERS FOR YOUR CANCER-FREE LIFE

If you have had cancer treatment and have been told by a doctor that you’re in remission or even cured, then you may seek medical help to ensure that the rest of your life is spent enjoying your best life. Here at Wooster Community Hospital, we partner with The James Cancer Network at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) to provide leading-edge diagnostics, treatments, and aftercare for oncology patients of all ages.

Now your renewed life begins. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with someone on our medical team at Wooster Cancer Care, contact our friendly staff today at (330) 262-2800. We look forward to being your healthcare partner!