Living Beyond a Cancer Prognosis: A Personal Journey

What is it like to outlive a cancer prognosis? This article shares a personal account of living with an extended life expectancy after receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis. Through detailed experiences and reflections, the author, who has survived eleven years beyond their original prognosis, brings to light the roller-coaster of emotions and challenges faced in this unique journey.

Initial Diagnosis and Prognosis

Back in 2007, the author received a terminal cancer prognosis from four independent specialists. The medical consensus was that chemotherapy was unlikely to provide any significant benefit beyond making the patient feel ill. Despite this grim outlook, the author chose to undergo chemotherapy, which helped to stall the progression of the cancer for an additional year.

Surviving the Decade of Scans

Over the past decade, the author has managed to avoid prolonged periods of active treatment, thanks to successful respites provided by chemotherapy. However, the primary stress factor has been the regular scans that determine the progress of the disease. These scans, which occur every three months, have become a source of significant anxiety, now referred to as scanxiety.

Emotional Roller-Coaster

For five years, the author has experienced a cycle of intense anxiety leading up to scan dates, followed by six weeks of varied emotions upon receiving the results. Scans are not just medical procedures but also psychological trials, as the waiting period stretches for weeks. The uncertainty is particularly challenging when the scans need to be reviewed by multiple specialists, adding to the waiting time.

Transition to Longer Periods Between Scans

Recently, the author’s medical journey has improved, with six-month intervals between scans. This shorter waiting period allows for more focused and relaxing periods, enabling the author to achieve more and spend quality time with loved ones. Despite these improvements, the anxiety and stress associated with living with terminal cancer remain.

Reflections on the Journey

Living with a terminal cancer prognosis is a complex and emotional experience. The author acknowledges the current phase as a period of borrowed time, with every positive scan result providing a small chance of further reprieve. The hope for remission remains, but the author is well aware of the long road ahead—nearly four more years of living with palliative care and the possibility of eventual decline.

Conclusion

While it is challenging, the author believes that the extended time provided by each successful period between scans can be used to make the most of every moment. Even though the road ahead remains uncertain, the ability to plan for the future and enjoy each day is a valuable gift.

Keywords

cancer prognosis, surviving terminal cancer, scanxiety