Cancer Survivors Network

Hi there. I too feel alone at times. My family thinks I should be just fine now that the cancer is gone. They have a hard time understanding my constant fear of it returning or finding something else wrong. What scares me the most is being away from my children again. Do you have kids? Hope you are having a good day. And just know that each day DOES get better and you get stronger!
God Bless,
Beth

Ohhh, how my heart goes out to you! And after all you went through. (I read your website.) I thought _my_ family was pretty skilled in the denial department...
Feeling alone is one of the hardest parts of dealing with cancer, because we all do, even those of us with more supportive families. (Mine doesn't really understand, but at least they don't think I should be "over it already".) But there are degrees, too, and it must be so hard for you.
What made the biggest difference for me was that a Gilda's Club opened in my area. It's just a place to go where you don't feel weird about being a cancer survivor, and believe me, you'll find lots of people who do understand, if there's one in your area. Check the website www.gildasclub.org
(They also run activities, like yoga classes--free to members, and membership is free, but I think the main thing is that a place like that really cuts through the isolation.
I think there are similar things on the west coast--wellness communities? I'm not sure--and you could try to find someone to talk to through the closest ACS office.
Or, you can always e-mail me, either here or at ctsang@uic.edu.
Hang in there, and don't let your family keep you from finding real support elsewhere.
Carol

I know how you feel. I guess there are a lot of us out here. I live in a small town, have no support groups available and wish there were and I too am angry. I don't understand the problems from the chemo that I'm having and I'm having trouble finding answers to my questions. It doesn't help when the ones you turn to for support tell you that you're "over it now" and "dwelling on it won't help". Dwelling on it?? I need to know if my problems come from the chemo (and that's ok, I can handle that) or IS IT BACK??? I guess the hardest thing is to face the fear alone (others don't want to hear about it, there isn't anything they can do to help and I'm sure they feel frustrated about that). My greatest fear is that I will "get on with life" and miss the early signs of cancer's return.
However, remember that you are never really alone. Jesus is standing beside you wanting to give you support, wanting to give you peace and hope. All you have to do is let him. Get to know him well, He's the best friend you'll ever know. I know. He walks with me.