How to Simply Describe the Breast Cancer Journey
When asked about my breast cancer journey and how I am doing, I often struggle to convey what it’s like in simple terms. However, I found an analogy that, while it may never fully help someone understand the lived experience, makes it relatable for people from all walks of life and backgrounds.
I describe the breast cancer journey as a book.
Chapters
Each chapter represents different stages of their experience—from diagnosis, treatment, and recovery to the emotional and psychological impact. Just as every chapter in a book contributes to the overall story, every phase of the journey shapes a person’s life.
Genre Variations
Some may experience their journey as a drama, filled with intense emotions and pivotal moments. Others might see it as a mystery, navigating through uncertainties and unknowns. For some, it may even be a story of resilience and triumph, an underdog story that gives one a sense of achievement. And sometimes it’s all these things at different moments in the story.
Character Development
Someone with a breast cancer diagnosis can find themselves a completely changed person during the process. They may develop new strengths, insights, and perspectives, much like characters in a novel who are transformed by their journeys. Think of where Frodo Baggins began at the beginning of LOTR. Just living his simple life in the shire to going through trials and tribulations that could have broken him and maybe at moments they did, but he persevered with the help of a dear friend to do what he set out to do. He may not be the same Frodo at the end, he carries scars and memories from his journey that will always be with him but he also found great purpose and perhaps realizes he is much more capable than he ever thought he was.
Plot Twists
Breast cancer journeys often include unexpected turns, much like plot twists in a book. From surprising diagnoses to sudden changes in treatment plans, these twists challenge the individual and their loved ones, forcing them to adapt and find new ways to cope. The breast cancer journey, even in the best scenarios are a lesson in letting go of control.
Supporting Characters
Just as Frodo had Sam, (I’m sticking with this LOTR analogy so get on board!) who influenced and supported Frodo’s journey, people with breast cancer often have a network of family, friends, healthcare providers, and support groups who play crucial roles. This is something to remember that not everyone may have the luxury of having. I myself was at a disadvantage with moving to a new state shortly before my diagnosis. But was fortunate to have friends and family visit when they could. But not having a strong support system to help with daily physical or emotional needs was hard at times. Remember that little things can make all the difference for someone going through cancer. The feeling of isolation is strong even if you do have loved ones nearby.
The never-ending story
Many people expect there to be a clear conclusion of a story but that’s where the book analogy may fall short. There is often no “clear satisfying ending” with something like breast cancer. For many, the treatment continues long after the surgeries, chemo, and radiation everyone thinks about. Many women continue with medication for a decade that continues to effect their quality of life. For those that don’t have this long term therapy there is the risk of reoccurrence or just learning to live with a new body that the cancer and treatment gave you. There generally is no back to 100% after something like this. It’s living with a new normal and that looks different for everyone. It does not mean that survivors aren’t living a wonderful life but it’s important to acknowledge the nuances and complexity of a cancer diagnosis and survival.
At the end of the day it’s a classic story that continues to be rewritten with modern twists and different endings. Much like “10 Things I Hate About You” is a modern take of Shakesperes’s “Taming of the Shrew” . The hope that is that this story will have a clear satisfying ending for women or better yet, may not be a story at all.