For Patients
AC2 has a strong focus on making high-quality information available to cancer patients and families. Our goal is to identify relevant cancer survivorship resources and translate them into multiple languages. Resources are available below on three key topics that are important to cancer survivors, including fear of cancer recurrence, changes in intimacy following cancer, and cancer-related cognitive impacts. Materials are available in English, Cantonese and Mandarin (or traditional Chinese and simplified Chinese).
Culturally Appropriate Resources
Navigating the cancer journey is incredibly challenging. And figuring out how to talk about what you're going through can be really tricky. But having open and honest conversations can make a big difference. It helps you get the support you need and makes the journey a bit easier. So, let's keep talking and supporting each other through this journey.
Fear of Cancer Recurrence
You may worry a lot about the cancer returning after finishing treatment. It's normal to feel scared or anxious about this because cancer is a tough thing to deal with. Even when doctors say you're okay, those worries can still hang around. Sometimes, they can affect your daily life and make it hard to enjoy things. But remember, there are things you can do to cope, like staying active, finding ways to relax, and staying connected with others.
Intimacy
Cancer and its treatment can affect how you feel about yourself, both physically and emotionally. You might feel self-conscious about changes in your body or worry about whether you'll be able to enjoy intimacy like before. It's okay to have these concerns, and it's important to talk about them. Take things slow, be patient with yourself, and seeking support from loved ones and healthcare professionals can help you navigate intimacy issues and strengthen your relationship.
Cancer-Related Cognitive Issues
Sometimes, after cancer treatment, you might notice changes in how you think or remember things. This is called cancer-related cognitive impairment. It can make it hard to concentrate, remember details, or think as quickly as before. These changes can be frustrating, but they're common, and they usually improve over time. Strategies like writing things down, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and getting plenty of rest can help. If you're worried about cognitive changes, talk to your doctor. They can offer advice and support to help you cope.
