As both a patient and caregiver, my stress decreases when I remind myself that I am always “me.” That doesn’t sound like much, let alone anything earth-shattering. But it has made a difference for me.
Read moreThe Healing Power of Saying, "This is hard!"
While working through a challenge toward a goal, do you mention to friends about how hard it is? If you admire Rambo, probably not. Some thoughts on why, maybe, you should.
Read moreDealing with Regrets
The crisis is over, and you are now fine. Except you keep replaying in your mind a particular aspect of how you handled the crisis, wishing you’d said or done it differently (e.g., recognized a worrisome symptom sooner).
Rationally, you know you need to let it go and move on. It’s in the past. But your mind is fixated on it. What can you do?
Read moreBetter than "Better"
Friend: Are you better? Pateint: Yeah, I’m better. The friend now thinks everything is fine or back to normal when, maybe, the patient is still working through tough times.
Read moreClichés of Compassion
In your effort to comfort someone, you may unwittingly cause distress saying what seems like the right thing. Of the many possible scenarios, a common one is
Read moreYour Public Persona and Healthy Survivorship
Preserving your public persona could cost you your health—or even your life!
Read moreNew Year's Resolution
While others are making (and breaking) New Year’s resolutions, I’m experimenting with a new tack:
Read moreDo you have a problem or a dilemma?
If a challenge upsets you, it may help to distinguish whether you have a problem or a dilemma.
Read moreIn Pursuit of a Normal Life--Part IV
Healing words and ideas can change your world for the better. If facing unwanted changes in your reality, the idea of creating a “new normal for now” can help you …
Read moreCancer, love and guilt
Lately, my days have been filled with love, laughter and meaningful work. While sailing on unusually calm waters, I'm thinking of my loved ones who are negotiating rough seas. Instead of feeling guilty at my current good fortune, I feel increased gratitude. I must feel joyful to honor them.
Read moreHope that Works
"...hope, to provide what it can and should, needs to be tied to reality." That's the line that prompted me to share
Read moreThe Difficulty of Reporting Minor Symptoms--Part III
Recent posts outlined some of the many reasons patients may experience conflict and distress when deciding whether to call about minor symptoms. What's a Healthy Survivor to do?
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