Finding Myself Again: How Supportive Oncology Saved Me
If I lost myself in cancer, then I rediscovered myself in Supportive Oncology…
Eight years ago at the age of forty-one I was feeling strong in my self care. I had learned to relax, enthusiastically ran 3-4 times a week, and ate veggies on the regular. And then breast cancer came for me. I was diagnosed with Stage 0 DCIS and required a mastectomy. I opted for bilateral with extensive reconstructive surgery. That meant a long pause in running; without that release, I was drowning in my thoughts. Seeing my anxiety escalating, my Nurse Navigator referred me to Integrative Oncology in the Supportive Oncology Department of my hospital system.
My new Integrative Oncologist taught me to meditate. And it was a game changer. For the first time since being diagnosed, I felt peaceful and present. It was also my discovery of the world of supportive oncology that cared for the entirety of me, not just my cancer.
Four years after my initial diagnosis, Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer was detected through routine scans. I was devastated and turned to psycho oncology for support. With their guidance, I identified my anxiety regarding what I was putting into my body. They sent me to nutrition oncology so that I could operate out of facts and not fears. Likewise, with a new diagnosis comes a lot of unsolicited non-expert opinions. My integrative oncologist set me straight on supplements, environmental toxins and self care.
Initial treatment got my cancer under control, but not without side effects. I turned to acupuncture and therapeutic massage in Supportive Oncology. Not only are these services stellar and half the price of a private business, but the practitioners share a chart with my oncology team. So they understand the medications I am taking and challenges I am having. And that in turn gets shared with my oncologist.
For me, thriving with Stage 4 breast cancer is all about living my best life. And Supportive Oncology truly helps me do that by seeing me for more than my cancer and helping me, mind, body and spirit, feel the best that I can.
I first engaged with Sharsheret seeking support after my Stage 4 MBC diagnosis. I continue to benefit from their webinars, blogs, check-ins and Embrace Facebook group.
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