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Sunday, 12 January 2014

How A Cancer Social Network Is An Invaluable Lifeline For Those Suffering With The Disease

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By Marissa Velazquez


Being diagnosed with cancer can be a shattering experience, to say the least. Friends and family may be paragons of kindness and understanding, but they can never truly understand what it is like to suffer with this terrible disease. A cancer social network is often an invaluable lifeline for those with the condition, and also for those with loved ones who have it.

When they are first diagnosed, many people are hit with a flood of powerful emotions. They be shell-shocked, numb, terrified, or any combination of these or other emotions. Fear of dying is of course one of the biggest fears we all have, and a cancer diagnosis forces us to confront this in a sudden and brutal way.

Another common reaction is grief for the loss of a future life. Many grieve for the happy, normal events of life they fear they will never have. This loss of one's future can lead to great sadness and longing and can be a heavy load to bear.

There are of course a plethora of other implications that face the newly diagnosed. This can leave them with a huge number of questions that non-sufferers will be unable to answer. Worries about husbands, wives and children who will be left behind loom large for those with families. Financial issues, too, can be a concern for many, with regard to both medical costs and how those left behind will cope.

Fears regarding impending treatment regimes are also a common concern. Treatments for this disease can of course be long, painful and debilitating. Some wish to keep their illness to themselves and fear others finding out. They may worry about being sidelined and seen as less valid individuals. This can be a huge fear for those who value their strength and competence.

People facing these issues often find their families, despite their good intentions, are unable to understand what they are experiencing. It can be a gigantic weight off someone's mind to connect with supportive people who fully understand exactly what they are going through. This psychological boost should not be underestimated. It is imperative that cancer patients stay as positive as possible, to not give in to negative thoughts and feelings, and to the disease.

Sharing one's own story can also be massively therapeutic. Feelings need to be expressed. When they are bottled up, they only add to whatever stress one is experiencing. To write about one's fears and challenges is a tremendous way to work through some of those difficult feelings and to reach a greater state of clarity and peace of mind.

Joining a cancer social network is easily one of the smartest things one can do when facing this nightmare disease. Being able to answers to difficult questions from people who understand your predicament is an incredible help. Having a support network of friendly, positive people is also a resource that can make a massive difference to one's morale. These days, cancer need not be a death sentence, connecting with others in the same situation is the best aid to survival, both physical and emotional.




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