Ovarian Cancer in remission: Any advice on staying healthy?

@starko, that's a beautiful photo. You can upload it to your profile if you like. Here's how to update your profile with an image and short bio, etc.
- How to Update Your Profile https://connect.mayoclinic.org/page/about-connect/newsfeed-post/how-to-update-your-profile/

I added this discussion about healthy living tips and enjoying life in remission to the the Gynecologic Cancers group: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/gynecologic-cancer/

I'd also like to invite @pauldale4 @rochellewisner @chowmama2 @susu2 @leannn @odette and other members of the group to join this discussion. What life-style changes or additions have you made: diet, exercise, sleep habits, others?

It sounds as though you are doing everything just right. I, too, exercise, meditate, do yoga, and eat a Mediterranean diet. You also are undoubtedly receiving excellent medical care at the Mayo Clinic. For me, understanding the latest research on the etiology of my specific disease (rare) is useful in that I hope some day to help other women who face this experience. I still struggle with anxiety which often seems to be my biggest obstacle at this time.
If I understand correctly, you live in Hawaii? How wonderful. I have some family there. It is truly a paradise. Nature has been very healing for me in my recovery. And of course, family and friends provide never ending support and love. Feel free to write any time.

I love what was shared @starko by @danielad and @odette. That's a very comprehensive list I agree with that will help you be resilient and healthy in your journey! I'll add a focus on faith, spirit, and attitude which are a big part of what holds me together. First, let me tell you just a little about me. I'm 51 years old, recently retired elementary school counselor with Stage 4 ovarian cancer. I was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2002. Side note: Previously I had a stroke in 1986 which paralyzed my entire right side as a freshman in college. I had to learn to walk, talk, and speak all over again. The stroke was due to a heart defect and since then I've had 4 heart surgeries as well. So in 2014, after 12 years in remission, my cancer recurred and in 2015 it moved to stage 4. I share all this only to help show that I've experienced a bit, 😉 and that's why I'll add to faith, spirit, and attitude. I love having a way to contribute - give back and help others and finding joyful purpose each day. I think each of us has to find what that is that fits our gifts and opportunities, but I think it makes a big difference when I can take my mind and actions and engage them in good for others! For me, that's a prayer for others, that's getting my certification from Pet Partners so my dog Marshall and I can provide animal team therapy with 4 children at my previous elementary school, and visiting and providing support for a teacher who recently had a stroke that paralyzed her right side. I draw strength from the good book (bible) ;), good friends and family I try to visit often. I really appreciate Dr. Amit Sood's book from Mayo Clinic - Stress-Free Living and am currently reading his Handbook for Happiness - there are quite a bit of biblical principles in both of these great reads. I try to make my moments count and try not to get "stuck" in the negative or worry - I remind myself it's just wasted time when I have so much more I could do with it. I try to find challenges, set fun goals, and find joy in the simple things like a hummingbird visiting my garden to grand adventures like planning a trip to Montreal, Vermont, and New Hampshire to see the foliage. There are tough days or moments in which we're entitled to feel and give a place for the hurt, but then we step back up and live life with our joy and purpose. If that's hard, remember you're not alone or considered weak to ask for help. 🙂 I sometimes have to remind myself of that. Best wishes as you step one foot in front of the other living your best life!

Thank you, I have a strong belief in God, it’s all in his hands.

I haven't heard from you in awhile. I hope that all is going well for you. Are you in Arizona or Washington now? I have retired, but my husband is still working. We talk about spending part of the year in the southwest and summers with our families in the north. Half the fun is the anticipation of a new stage of life. It is sunny today in New England, but rainy the rest of the week. We are eager to be in the garden which is in bloom. Nature is so comforting.

I don’t know why my picture posted upside down? Hehe

I was wondering if anyone else post chemo has dizziness and upset stomachs once in awhile? I also have slot of spams in my caves and feet .

Thank you, Leanna! How kind of you to share your life with us, Quite frankly, I wrestle with spirituality, but I understand how it influences our lives! Must try harder! You are truly an inspiration!

@starko You're welcome, I'm happy to share if it can help you or anyone else. Spirituality, faith, can be tough to understand. I profess to not understanding it all myself. But I know, through evidence and experience that faith helps me stay strong. I certainly have been blessed. 💗