Page 82 2024 PAINT THE PAPER PINK Lincoln Daily News Oct/Nov 2024 There are more than 18 million cancer survivors in the United States. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Across the country, stories will be shared, fundraising walks will be held, and just like every month, more women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. For survivors, it’s also a time of reflection and continuing to live ‘a new normal,’ post-cancer. When it comes to cancer, most people think about physical pain that is often associated with a diagnosis. But the emotional toll that Life after cancer comes with this serious disease can many times be just as devastating. Those feelings can include fear, denial, anger, sadness and more. And the wave of emotions tends to change hourly, daily and even minute to minute. A cancer diagnosis now becomes all-consuming for both the person and perhaps loved ones as well. And that can remain true even after the cancer has come and gone. “Life after a diagnosis completely turns your life upside down,” says Nicole Wagner, an oncology nurse navigator for OSF HealthCare. “It's really hard to find your footing; hard to find your bearings. It's hard to find something solid to hold on to after something like [a cancer diagnosis].” Wagner encourages people to find ways to cope with their emotions. For example, build a support group of people you feel comfortable talking to. Find ways to relax, such as meditation, guided imagery and exercise. Choose when and how to talk about your cancer. Continued --
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