Finishing Treatment – OnCare Cancer Center Finishing Treatment
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Finishing Treatment
Ending cancer treatments can be both exciting and challenging. Most people are relieved to be finished with the demands of treatment, but many also feel a sense of sadness and worry. Many are concerned that the cancer will come back and they wonder about what they should do after treatment. When treatment ends, people often expect life to return to the way it was before they were diagnosed with cancer. This is a possibility, but it is also rarely the case. Cancer treatment may change you physically and you may not be able to do some of the activities you once did easily. You may view yourself as being somehow different. One of the hardest parts about completing treatment is not knowing what to expect.
What Is "Normal" After Treatment? Those who complete treatment describe the first few months as a time of change as you discover what is “normal” for you now. Your new "normal" may require that you make changes in the way you eat, your activities, and your sources of support. Life beyond illness is unique to each individual. Although you may not like the term “cancer survivor” or you may feel that it does not apply to you, the word “survivor” refers to life beyond a life-changing event – in this case, illness and treatment.
We encourage you to be active in getting the information and support you need after treatment. Look at the National Cancer Institute website for more information and the suggested articles listed below.
This publication covers post-treatment issues such as follow-up medical care, physical and Follow-up Care: Questions and Answers
A fact sheet that provides information about follow-up medical care for patients who have completed cancer treatment. NCI Fact Sheet 7.48
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