You didn’t put having cancer on your to-do list but you can create a survivor plan, a thoughtful list that gives you a map to guide you through  uncharted waters. Since we’re still around, we might as well take part in our lives, create our stories regardless of whether or not they have a clear beginning, middle or end. Your plan becomes the boat that holds you as you learn to steer through the waters of uncertainty in both darkness and light until you find yourself in the place you are now. In the end, it’s really all we can count on. In the open space of our awareness we keep falling forward from one moment to the next, learning to live with uncertainty as we go.

They tell us we must be our own advocates but … how?  And .. all alone?  Currently there are some online sites where a cancer patient may create a survivor care plan. These plans are the ones most often given to the patient by their physician. While somewhat helpful, they are not personalized to the individual’s unique situation and needs. Most of these plans have a small box labeled “Psychosocial Distress” which  you can check.  But what happens then? Hopefully, someone asks you how you are and , if you want, refers you to some helpful resources. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen and you may end up feeling isolated with all that is going on inside of you.

By creating your own survival plan you become an integral part of the process of moving through and beyond cancer. It can provide you with a structure if you are a person living with cancer. You may choose to share this plan with your treatment team as an adjunct to the plans in your medical records. Your medical team can interface with the information regarding your treatment as well as your post treatment follow up; they may be able to help you focus on identifying your emotional needs and then make appropriate referrals. If you work with a social worker you can put together the resources you will need whether you live with cancer or have moved beyond the treatment phase of cancer. These may include financial as well as social services information. You may choose to work with a psychotherapist to help you explore the thoughts and feelings that will arise as you reflect on the questions of your survivorship.

If you have questions or need guidance on how to structure your plan,  feel free to contact me.   ckrautermft@sbcglobal.net