The Misconception: Is Enduring Cancer Treatment Considered Brave by Patients?

It is time to reconsider how we perceive and frame cancer treatment and its challenges. Relying on phrases like “you’ll beat this because you’re a fighter” or “you’re stronger than cancer” can be both misleading and harmful. These statements can make cancer patients feel blamed for their deteriorating health and eventual outcomes, especially those undergoing enduring treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Many oncologists and oncology specialists agree that, in advanced stages of lung, liver, abdominal, and breast cancers, the recommended treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, can cause severe side effects and distress.

Why the Misconception Persists

The common misconception that enduring cancer treatment is considered an act of bravery stems from a culture of resilience and relentless optimism. However, framing it this way can be overwhelming and detrimental to patients' mental health and recovery. Many patients go through aggressive treatments like chemotherapy and radiation with minimal or manageable side effects, but even those who experience severe adverse reactions may not feel brave at all.

The Reality of Cancer Treatment

Cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy and radiation often face a multitude of physical and emotional challenges. They may experience:

Severe distress Worsening or deteriorating health Adverse side effects, including: Abdominal discomfort Loss of appetite Vomiting Diarrhea Severe hair loss and skin reactions

These challenges are beyond what most people go through in their daily lives, and it is unfair to expect patients to simply endure them without feeling any discomfort or distress. While it is commendable when patients can push through the pain and discomfort, it is important to recognize that everyone's experience with cancer and its treatments is unique.

Personal Experiences with Cancer and Treatment

As a brain tumor patient who endured two craniotomies, lifetime maximum dosage radiation, and a year of chemotherapy, I can attest that I never felt brave. The side effects were minimal or manageable, and I never felt any noticeable pain, including during a “wide awake” craniotomy. Calling me brave would have been laughable. Many patients face similar experiences—some with severe adverse reactions, while others manage with fewer issues.

Brain tumor radiation, in particular, involves being rigidly pinned to a fixed table with a custom-made plastic mask, making it impossible to breathe freely. Surviving this without flinching is not a display of bravery; it is a necessity due to the inability to move or scream for help. The true bravery lies in choosing to fight despite the overwhelming odds and the body's natural fight-or-flight response.

Conclusion

Instead of framing cancer treatment as an act of bravery, it is more constructive to recognize the unique challenges and resilience of each patient. Oncologists and specialists agree that in advanced stages of lung, liver, abdominal, and breast cancer, the treatments can cause significant distress and side effects. It is important to support patients emotionally and physically, acknowledging their strength in navigating these complex treatments without diminishing their experiences or expectations.

By shifting our perspective, we can provide a more compassionate and realistic understanding of cancer treatment and support patients in their journeys.