by Phyllis Parker
Abreast A River Team Member

Dragon Tales by Phyllis Parker Abreast a River Team Member

Once breast cancer enters a woman's world her life changes. Dr. Robert Buckman, a well known medical oncologist, claims that the word cancer is "probably the scariest word in the English language". It brings with it feelings of dread, fear and helplessness.

In recent years much of that has been eliminated through the work of Patient Navigators. They work with the patient and the medical team on all decisions about treatments. This gives the patient more sense of control over what is happening to them.

Following the active phase of breast cancer treatments most women think about the changes in their lives. When change is viewed as something that has a beginning and an end we, or our families, may expect things will simply "get back to normal".

Breast cancer doesn't have an end. We are mindful of recurrence. We may look pretty much the same. We work , we are actively involved with family activities, we may participate in sports again, we volunteer, but we are really in transition. We are changed physically by losing a breast, part of a breast, possibly two breasts and getting back to "normal" mentally can for some be a difficult task. Dr Buckman says all cancer patients must get their sense of direction back and decide where their lives "need" to go.

Some survivors turn to the internet, exploring for many hours. Some become obsessed. One big problem with the internet is that anyone can say anything on it. Sites that sound like learned authority may not be that at all. A cancer patient's best choice is to first contact the Canadian Cancer Society (www.cancer.ca) in order to be directed toward all reputable sites. The Society also has many informative booklets (ie. "Life After Cancer: a guide for cancer survivors")

One of the best things a woman can do for herself is to join a breast cancer support group. Dr. David Spiegel studied the value of these as far back as the 1970's and '80s. One thing these women were encouraged to do was face the fact that they could die. Acknowledging your deepest fears makes it easier to move forward - especially when you are with a group of women who have the same thoughts. Members often meet socially outside formal meetings and become strong, supportive friends.

The exchange of information within a support group is invaluable. We learn within the group how to use information. Previous columns have discussed the value of exercise and proper diet. We have also learned about natural health products, vitamins, herbal treatments. We know that our minds as well as our bodies are in need of rest and repair. For some exploring yoga, meditation, massage, reiki, reflexology offer answers to well being. Within the setting of a support group it is easier to explore options and receive correct information. The options open to us are there to think about and the "scary" future can become more manageable.

For further information on cancer call the Canadian Cancer Society Information Line at 1-888-939-3333