In 2020, after a tough health scare with COVID-19, I began having serious stomach pain, vomiting, and constipation. My pain became increasingly unbearable and more intense daily. My doctor told me not to worry about it and did not believe that it was cancer. She prescribed me more antibiotics and I continued to digress downhill physically. In the next 8 weeks, I had lost around 60 pounds and started to resemble a concentration camp survivor.
Finally, without my doctor’s approval, I sought out a surgeon who examined me and my imaging records and determined that it was probably cancer, but I needed a colonoscopy to make sure. I went quickly to the hospital for the procedure, and after I awoke from the anesthesia, the doctor who performed the examination said to me, “You have cancer.” I immediately went into fear mode after hearing those three infamous words. I had a 1-foot-long cancerous tumor in my colon which was the source of all my symptoms.
As my mind was racing, I thought to myself, “What if the cancer has spread? How do I tell my family?” Many “What ifs” were running through my mind with great anxiety. My father had passed away from colon cancer that had metastasized. When cancer spreads it is called metastasis. A few cells from a tumor break off and travel through the bloodstream to another location in the body, where they set up shop and start to grow additional tumors.
I had laparoscopic surgery to remove the tumor, started my recovery, and began 6 months of chemotherapy. The 6 months of chemo were challenging. The side effects included losing my ability to taste, my hands and feet swelling and turning bright red, my mouth being filled with blisters and sores, and my teeth cracking and falling out. My weariness and lack of motivation to even get out of bed was a continual struggle daily.
If you have just been diagnosed with cancer, it is crucial to acknowledge the wide spectrum of emotions that you might be feeling. It is important to recognize that you may be experiencing grief, which can lead to self-pity, depression, and a desire to flee or disappear from the situation entirely. Cancer affects more than just the body, as it can also deeply affect your mental and emotional well-being. A cancer diagnosis can have a devastating impact on a person and their family. Remember that the feelings you feel are common for many others going through this same thing.
Initially, I wanted to isolate myself from everyone and everything in order to concentrate on what I needed to do to find healing. I discovered that the first few months after a cancer diagnosis can be extremely difficult emotionally. In prayer, I was working through my fears to the point where I could make informed and well-thought-out decisions about my future treatment.
I would recommend that any treatment decision be made not only with your doctor or oncologist, but also with the input of your family, pastor, and friends. If you have older children, including them in the decision-making process helps to educate them on the severity of the cancer diagnosis, the benefits of treatment, and the importance of their support throughout your cancer journey.
It’s important to have supportive family and friends who are ready to assist you in navigating the healthcare system to ensure that your needs are met. They can help you gather the necessary information you need and work with you to create a faith-filled environment that eliminates the fear of the “what ifs” that arise during this process.
Practical Steps
1. Offer continuous prayer. Be a self-encourager as you spend time in prayer daily, seeking God’s comfort, healing, and guidance. Faith-filled and heartfelt prayers have a powerful impact on your spiritual and mental health, according to James 5:16.
2. Gently ask and educate your family and friends for their presence and support. They can be caring in both tangible and emotional ways by providing you with a compassionate and understanding ear, allowing you to express your fears, concerns, and emotions freely. Their empathetic listening ear can provide a sense of comfort and reassurance. Their presence can serve as a source of strength and comfort, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ.
3. Nurture your body and mind. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by focusing on receiving wholesome nutrition, gentle exercise (if possible), and incorporating stress-relieving techniques such as meditation on God’s Word and deep breathing.
4. Equip yourself with knowledge. Educate yourself about your diagnosis and the available treatment options. Understanding the journey ahead can empower you to make good and informed decisions and foster peace of mind.
5. Cultivate a positive outlook. Although it may be challenging, strive to maintain a positive attitude. Trust in the healing power of God and the advancements in medical science, believing in the possibility of restoration and recovery.
6. Ask for assistance with practical needs. During recovery and chemotherapy, you will need help with day-to-day tasks, such as meal preparation, running errands, providing transportation for children, or running to medical appointments. Friends and family providing acts of service can alleviate some of the burdens during treatment.
7. Create an atmosphere of hope. Speak words of encouragement and faith, reminding yourself of the hope found in God’s promises. Romans 15:13 assures us that God is the source of all hope, filling us with joy and peace as we trust in Him.
8. Seek community connection. Engage with church and cancer support groups, finding comfort in shared experiences and learning from others who have navigated similar challenges. The shared bond can provide a profound sense of understanding and encouragement.
