Reflection: A Day in the Life on a Cancer Journey
Sunday.
The day I both dreaded and anticipated.
During my husband's six-week treatment plan, Sundays were a mix of anxiety and hope. Monday was treatment day, and by Sunday, the toll of chemo and radiation had left my husband exhausted and worn down.
What I didn’t realize then was how crucial it is to support both the mind and body during treatment. I was unprepared—unsure how to fully support my husband, myself, and our physical and emotional well-being.
Most days, I felt helpless.
One week, in particular, is etched in my memory.
The Day Treatment Ended:
Monday.
We walked into the cancer center, hoping the fluids my husband received would restore some of his much-needed energy, moving us one step closer to the end of his treatment. He had been running a low-grade fever for a couple days but insisted this was normal before treatment. He didn’t want me to call the nurse. To him, it was just another symptom to endure.
But nothing about this was normal.
The nurse took his temperature and immediately called in the oncologist. With a glance at the numbers, the oncologist announced, "We are done with treatment. He needs to be admitted to the hospital. He is very ill."
I was shocked. His next words were even more devastating.
“Why didn’t you bring him in before today?
I explained that my husband said he was fine, that he always felt this way the day before treatment.
I trusted him—after all, he was the one experiencing this firsthand.
The oncologist looked at me and said, “This is a matter of life or death.”
My heart sank.
Instantly, I was consumed by fear and a deep sense of guilt. I felt like I had let my husband down, like I was being judged and reprimanded. I felt terrible - I had failed him when he needed me most.
There would be no more chemotherapy; this was to be his last session. He was admitted to the hospital, and radiation would continue for another week.
Lessons Learned:
This experience taught me that cancer treatment is more than just killing the disease - it’s about preparing for the unexpected and finding ways to support every aspect of our well-being.
Reflecting on that difficult time, I’ve realized several key lessons that could help others on a similar journey:
The Need for an Integrative Approach:
We must be prepared for anything, especially when unexpected complications arise. This includes understanding the importance of integrative care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of cancer treatment.Emotional Support:
Cancer is a rollercoaster of emotions. It's crucial to acknowledge and accept all the feelings that come with this journey, knowing that it’s okay to experience fear, hope, sadness, and relief.
It’s important to know these are normal emotions along the journey and expressing them can help heal the mind and body along the way.Physical Support:
Proper nutrition is vital to provide the fuel and energy the body needs. Supporting the body’s detoxification processes, helping it cope with the bombardment of medications and treatments.
Simple detox practices can assist the body in handling these poisons more efficiently.Spiritual Support:
Finding a source of comfort—a higher power, your faith, a support group, or a community—can offer a lifeline of hope and inspiration.
It’s essential to have a space where you can connect, feel heard, and find strength. This is not often found in the hospital setting.
Cancer is a journey, and it’s unique for everyone involved. Whether you’re the patient, the caregiver, or a family member, each of you will experience this journey in your own way.
Remember, it’s not just about surviving; it’s about finding whole body support you need to thrive through it.
It is possible.
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