What can we learn from Cancer Patients?
By Caleb Scoville, LPC
Cancer is a scary diagnosis. Renegade cells attack the body, we hear things from medical professionals and remember prior knowledge of what we have seen and heard prompting many to fear how their body will respond physically and emotionally. Cancer also raises many questions that we shy away from unless we are faced with directly. However, Cancer and other chronic illnesses can be a wakeup call if we are listening.
Cancer has a way of reminding people that time is a valuable, non-negotiable, and a non-renewable resource. That said, how do we look at the bigger picture of life and what is truly important?
Focus on Relationships
We were not meant to do this life alone, few regret time spent cultivating meaningful relationships regardless of life circumstances.
I sometimes play “ the Ungame” with children and teens I see. An essential part of this game is landing your playing piece on the Ungame square and then drawing a card and answering the question. Of the two question decks of cards, I refer to deck 2 as “the deeper questions.” One of those questions is “What do you want your last words to be?” I am intrigued by the range of responses I receive. Ask yourself that question... Did you picture yourself saying that to someone who means a lot to you? Ask yourself another question. Are you making time for that person and others in your life?
Trim The Fat
Yes, dieting and exercise is a great way to be healthy at any stage of life…
But I am referring to something else. Our homes—and our lives— we all have a tendency to fill them with clutter and hang on to things we do not need. A cancer diagnosis can become the catalyst for housekeeping of the heart as we realize what is truly important to us. It is also a good time to reflect on spiritual matters as they clarify what is essential.
“Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (Hebrews 12:1-2).
Speak your Heart
It is good for all of us to review and consider our relationships. If we love people, why not let them know how much they mean to us? If we have hurt people or offended them in some way, why not seek their forgiveness and do what we can to make it right?
Who are the most important people in your life? Have you meaningfully shared with them lately?
“A heart at peace gives rest to the body.” Proverbs 14:30
Set New Goals
It can be tempting to wait for a difficult season to be over. “When I’m better, then I will take that trip.” “When I am better, then I will _____.” Why not do what you are able to now? Why hold back on something that could bring you joy and peace of mind, something to promote your life forward in some meaningful way? I implore you to find what you care about and look forward to. Then dream some dreams, set some goals, and do what you can to make it happen.
Many cancer patients find that their experiences have helped them clarify and simplify their priorities—they have discovered for themselves what is most important. Some cancer patients will recognize how much the care and concern of others have meant to them—and now they want to give back.
What can we learn from this?
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort,
who comforts us in all our troubles,
so that we can comfort those in any trouble
with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Adapted From Our Journey of Hope: Cancer Treatment Centers of America
Caleb Scoville, LPC is a staff therapist at TLCC
