Dear readers,
I hope that through my writings, you’ve gained a deeper understanding of my journey with breast cancer. As we near the end of my entries, I still have a few important topics to share—ones that resonate with all of us who have faced cancer.
Once treatment is over, a new phase begins, often filled with pressing questions:
🔹 What will my life be like after the illness?
🔹 What lasting effects will the treatment have?
🔹 How will I return to work?
🔹 How frequent will my follow-up appointments be?
These were questions I grappled with as well, often searching for answers on my own. I strongly believe that the period after treatment deserves more attention, as patients remain part of the system even after active care ends. For me, Europa Donna Slovenia played a crucial role in helping me navigate this uncertainty.
The Period of Uncertainty and Fear of Recurrence of the Cancer
During treatment, I felt a certain “security” knowing that I was under constant medical supervision. But when treatment ended, I found myself in an emotional whirlwind. My biggest fear was:
“What if the disease comes back?”
I couldn’t stop questioning:
🔹 Would I be able to endure chemotherapy again?
🔹 Does a recurrence of the cancer mean the worst?
🔹 How would I cope mentally if I had to go through this again?
Thankfully, I don’t carry these worries daily, but I remain aware that recurrence of the cancer is always a possibility. At first, every ache or change in my body triggered fear. A simple headache made me panic that the disease had returned.
How I Faced My Fears
Speaking openly with a psychologist at the Oncology Institute helped me normalize my emotions. She reassured me that fear is a natural part of the healing process. Anxiety became especially overwhelming as my first follow-up appointment approached.
I found meditation and visualization incredibly helpful. A technique that worked for me was creating a vision board—imagining myself healthy, strong, and thriving, with no room for illness. Over time, I learned to shift my focus from fear to gratitude, embracing the preciousness of life.
Of course, some days are harder than others. There are moments when I feel overwhelmed and admit that I am struggling. But I remind myself that these days are temporary. I allow myself to rest, knowing that joy and self-love will always prevail.
Moving Forward with Less Fear and More Love
Fear of recurrence is a part of life after cancer, but it doesn’t have to control us. Through conversation, self-acceptance, and focusing on the beauty of life, I have found a way to move forward—with more awareness, more love, and less fear.
🔹 How did you cope with fear after completing treatment?
🔹 What was your biggest challenge—fear of relapse, uncertainty, or returning to “normal” life?
🔹 What strategies helped you find inner strength and calm?
Let’s share our experiences and support each other. 💙
