Hello All: I've read with interest this discussion on cancer recurrence. You have all reported thoughts and feelings that are so common after a cancer diagnosis. I have had three surgeries (2003, 2005, and 2016) due to a rare form of cancer, neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), and mine have been classified as Carcinoids. With each recurrence, I expected the worst outcome. However, the worst-case scenario has not come about for me so my worries were of no effect!

I try to think of cancer as a chronic illness, like diabetes, seizure disorders, heart problems, lung problems, etc. This means that I need to adapt to a lifestyle that is as healthy as possible. For me, it includes exercise (to reduce stress and worries), healthy eating (to reduce other health-related problems), and vigilance by visiting doctors and having appropriate follow-up tests.

I'm also diligent with research about my cancer which includes support groups like Mayo Connect, organizations devoted to research on my particular type of cancer, and sharing with others (like I'm doing now).

This sounds like a lot of effort, but I think it is worth the effort. It gives me a sense that I'm doing what I can to monitor my health and take care of myself. Education for me increases my feelings of empowerment.

My personal motto is "Education is Power and Attitude is Everything."