Thriving Beyond Cancer: Embracing the Journey of Survivorship with Faith and Resilience

June is National Cancer Survivors Month; I reflect on my own journey as an 18-year survivor of peritoneal mesothelioma. At 21, just months after the birth of my son, I was given an 18-month prognosis. But today, as I stand strong in my faith, I am reminded that the diagnosis does not define us. Our response, our journey, and the community that surrounds us shape who we become.

The road to cancer survivorship is not straightforward; it's more like a winding road with steep hills and low valleys. Cancer survivorship to me is about what comes after, when we’re tasked with rebuilding, healing, and embracing life once more. For many, cancer survivorship can feel like an ongoing battle—but through faith, community, and self-care, it is also a beautiful opportunity to grow and thrive.

Here’s what I’ve learned throughout my cancer journey and survivorship:

1. Faith: The Foundation of Resilience

Faith played a central role in my fight against cancer. It gave me the strength to continue when my body was weak, and my mind was filled with doubts. Faith became my anchor during the darkest moments, and it continues to empower me in every aspect of my life. In survivorship, I still lean on this foundation to remind me that no matter what challenges arise, I am not walking this journey alone.

2. Community is Key

Cancer can feel isolated. It’s a disease that affects not just the body, but the mind and spirit. But I learned early on that true healing comes from connection. I found strength in sharing my story with fellow survivors and listening to others who had walked similar paths. One reason why I resonate well with the Social Health Network.

3. The Power of Self-Care

Once treatment ends, and you’ve had the surgeries, it’s easy to assume that the healing process is over, but the journey doesn’t stop. Cancer may leave physical scars, but emotional and mental healing is just as important. Practicing self-care—through prayer, reflection, physical activity, and seeking support—became essential in my life after cancer. It's not always easy to prioritize yourself, but self-care is crucial in keeping the strength needed to thrive.

4. Embrace the Power of Your Story

Cancer Survivorship means more than just surviving cancer. It’s about using your experiences to uplift others and create change. My journey has shown me the power of storytelling and how sharing my personal experience and testimony can inspire others to keep going. When we are open and share our stories—whether with loved ones or with a community such as this one—we create a network of hope. This is how we grow stronger together.

5. There is No “Finish Line” in Survivorship

As a cancer survivor, I’ve realized that survivorship isn’t a moment; it’s an ongoing process. Each day is an opportunity to embrace life, even when the fear of recurrence or the physical toll of cancer stays. There will be difficult moments, but there will also be victories, small and large. The journey of survivorship is about moving forward with hope and living in a way that honors the strength we’ve found through our struggles.

A Message of Hope

National Cancer Survivors Month is a reminder to celebrate the strength and resilience of cancer survivors. To my fellow survivors, I see you, I honor you, and I stand with you. And those still in the fight—don’t give up. Your story isn’t over yet. It is filled with moments of triumph, healing, and, most importantly, thriving.

For those navigating life after cancer, I encourage you to seek out the support of those who understand and to continue investing in your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. You are not just a survivor. You are a warrior.