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Ask A Cancer Survivor

My name is David Emerson. I am a long-term cancer survivor. I was diagnosed with a blood cancer called multiple myeloma in 1994. I was told that my prognosis was 3-5 years and that MM is considered to be “very treatable” but incurable.

It has taken me years to figure out what it is to survive cancer, but I am now able to say that my cancer diagnosis was a good thing. Meaning, I think my cancer has changed my life in many ways. Positive ways. Sure, lots of bad things happen to cancer survivors. But, on balance, I consider surviving cancer to be a positive for me.

Cancer Survivorship | Did You Know?

Reflective and Emotional Questions
    • What was your biggest self-discovery or revelation during this journey?
    • What is the most difficult part of your journey and how did you overcome it?
    • What is a lesson you hope to pass on to others?
  • How has your perspective on life changed since your diagnosis?
  • What brings you the most joy or comfort now?
Practical and Supportive Questions
  • How can I best support you in your “new normal”?
  • What was the most helpful thing friends or family did for you?
  • How do you handle the fear of recurrence or health anxieties?
  • What do you wish people understood about life after cancer?
  • What are you looking forward to doing now?
Key Topics to Approach Respectfully
  • Physical Changes: “How has your body adjusted to the changes from treatment?”
  • Life Changes: “Did you return to your previous daily routine/work, or did you change directions?”
  • “Cancer Gift” Concept: Some survivors view their journey as a life-changing positive; asking about “lessons” or “silver linings” can allow them to share this if they choose.

David Emerson

Life After Cancer Treatment

People who have completed treatment often say that although they were relieved when it ended, they struggled with the transition to a new way of life after cancer treatment. It was like entering another world where they had to adjust to new feelings, changes in support, and different ways of looking at their life.

For some cancer survivors, even after treatment ends, they continue to have physical problems or emotional issues. And some must have careful monitoring with tests and check-ups to make sure the cancer isn’t returning.

Follow-Up Medical Care

Once you’re done with cancer treatment, you should receive a follow-up cancer care plan from your doctor and keep it with your medical records.

All cancer survivors should have follow-up care. Follow-up care for cancer means seeing a health care provider for regular medical check-ups once you’re done with treatment.

These check-ups may include bloodwork, as well as other tests and procedures that look for changes in your health or any problems that may occur due to your cancer treatment. These visits are also a time to check for physical and emotional problems that may occur months or years after treatment ends.

Late Effects of Cancer Treatment

The right type and amount of exercise can help keep you healthy. Talk with your doctor about which activities you can safely do.

Many side effects from cancer treatment get better once treatment is over. Sometimes, side effects may linger after treatment and cause long-term problems. And then, there are some problems that may not show up for months or years after you’ve finished treatment. These problems are called late effects. This page explains specific late effects that may occur after cancer treatment and suggests ways to manage them.

To learn about side effects that may occur during cancer treatment, see Side Effects of Cancer Treatment.