Survivors' guide
Reviewed by: A/P Michael Jefford MBBS, MPH, MHlthsevMt, PhD, MRACMA, FRACP, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Peter Mac; Dr. Carrie Lethborg, MSW, PhD, St. Vincent's Hospital
Has your doctor said you no longer appear to have any signs of cancer? This information is about the feelings and challenges you may face now your treatment's over and you can start to rebuild your life.
If you're still having treatment or your doctor's said your cancer has advanced (can't be cured), see our advanced cancer page.
Many people whose cancer has been treated and controlled now live for many years after their cancer diagnosis. This calls for more attention to be given to caring for and understanding cancer survivors' needs.
Your family and friends may also find it useful to read this information. It can help them to understand that although your treatment's over, you could still face some difficult times. Their continuing love and support will help you cope. We encourage family and friends to also say when they're finding things hard.
If you'd like to talk to someone about your concerns or receive other information, call our Cancer Council Helpline. The helpline nurses are qualified, experienced nurses, trained to listen and provide you with information and support.
What's a cancer survivor?
By now you may have heard the term ‘cancer survivor'. This means different things to different people. Some people use it to mean anyone with cancer: for example, someone newly diagnosed or someone having cancer treatment. Others use it to refer to people who are alive many years after their cancer treatment. Here we use the term ‘cancer survivor' to mean anyone who has finished their ‘active' cancer treatment. Your doctor has said your treatment has been successful. You're free from any signs of cancer. Doctors call this being in ‘remission'.
You may think the term ‘cancer survivor' sounds strange, but for many people it's a strong and positive way of explaining their situation.
‘I think being a cancer survivor is almost a badge of honour.' (Mark)
These websites will be useful for learning more about specific survivorship issues.
Australian Cancer Survivorship Centre (Peter Mac)
The US National Cancer Institute: facing forward series: Life after cancer treatment
Daffodil Day Get Behind Bowel Screening Forgotten Cancers Project Girls Night In Pink Ribbon Day Relay for Life