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In the last week of July 2024, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, a life-changing moment that turned my world upside down in a single day. The news came as a complete shock, and I found myself battling a whirlwind of emotions. First came the anger — “Why me? I was living a healthy lifestyle!” — followed by stress and tension — “What will happen? How will it happen?” The diagnosis put me face-to-face with uncertainty, and my life took a dramatic turn in just a matter of hours.
Despite the overwhelming emotions and the reality of the situation, I knew I had to make sense of it all as I prepared to undergo treatment. As a mental health professional, I relied on my skills to understand my position's magnitude. I allowed myself to feel my emotions fully, but then I accepted the situation as it was, knowing I had to face it head-on.
I reminded myself of a powerful truth: “The past I can’t change, and the future I can’t control. What I have is this present moment in which I live. I have to make the most of it and fight through it.”
This became my mantra, and it has guided me through my journey with cancer.
The Challenges of Chemotherapy
The chemotherapy treatment has not been easy. After each session, it takes me about five days to recover from the side effects. I have faced challenges like immediate reactions to the medicine and allergies, but I am grateful that with each session, I have made it through. God has helped me get through the first four chemotherapy sessions, and though half of my journey remains—four more sessions followed by surgery—I continue to rely on my faith, positivity, and mental strength.
How I Cope with cancer: Techniques That Keep Me Strong
Going through cancer treatment is undoubtedly one of the toughest challenges I've ever faced, but I’ve adopted strategies to help me stay strong, mentally and emotionally. Here are the techniques that have been instrumental in my healing journey:
1. Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques
Mindfulness has become a daily practice for me. I’ve learned that staying grounded in the present moment helps ease the anxiety of the unknown future. Simple breathing techniques, like deep breathing exercises, help me calm my mind and centre my thoughts during difficult times.
2. Mandala Art
As a form of self-expression and therapy, I immerse myself in Mandala art. It’s a creative way for me to release tension and focus on something positive. The repetitive patterns and shapes help soothe my mind and allow me to express feelings that words can’t capture.
3. Writing Blogs on Mental Health
Writing has always been a part of my life, but during this journey, it has become a source of healing. I write blogs on mental health, sharing insights on how to cope with life's challenges. Expressing my thoughts helps me process my emotions while providing a way to reach out to others who might be going through difficult times.
4. Keeping Busy with Work
I continue to stay busy with my work as an astrologer and tarot counsellor. I manage my website, write blogs, and create social media posts and reels. Keeping myself engaged in this work allows me to stay connected to my purpose, and it prevents me from being consumed by negative thoughts.
Gratitude and Support
Throughout this journey, I’ve realized just how important gratitude is. Every day, I make it a point to thank God for the strength I’ve been given, for the supportive family and friends who stand by me, and for every small victory along the way. Gratitude keeps me grounded and fills me with hope, even when the path ahead feels challenging.
Looking Forward: The Road ahead
Though my journey is far from over, I have accepted the challenges that lie ahead. I have four more chemotherapy sessions to go, followed by surgery. I know I will face more changes, but I am ready to fight. To do this, I must keep my mental health strong, and that’s why I will continue practising mindfulness, focusing on positive thoughts, and using simple coping techniques to maintain balance.
Cancer has taught me that life’s challenges are not meant to break us. Instead, they show us just how strong we can be when we believe in ourselves, trust the process, and stay present in the moment. While I have accepted this difficult time, I am determined to keep fighting with all the strength I have. And with every small step forward, I know I am closer to healing.
Conclusion
Living with cancer is not easy, but it has also shown me the power of acceptance, mindfulness, and staying positive. By focusing on the present, practising gratitude, and using simple techniques to cope, I am navigating this journey one step at a time. My mental health is my greatest ally, and I will continue to nurture it as I face the road ahead.
For anyone going through a similar experience, remember: it’s okay to not be okay sometimes. But through acceptance, mindfulness, and support, you can find the strength to keep moving forward.
This blog captures your personal experience while highlighting the techniques you use to cope, creating an inspiring and hopeful message for your readers.
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