Growing After the Trauma of Cancer

By Racheli Alkobey

1 min read

In the light of traumatic experiences and adversity, it is so easy and common to pay attention to the hardships we endure during these times. It’s so important to open our eyes and focus on how we can grow from these adversities and what positive outcomes we can make from them! I personally feel that through my cancer diagnosis, although I had negative side effects, I also grew and learned so much about how to live a mindful and positive life.

My experience with post-traumatic growth after cancer

I believe that I experienced post-traumatic growth, a term that I learned after listening to a podcast. In the video below, I talk about what that means!

Do you feel that you've grown since your blood cancer diagnosis? Share in the comments below!

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Yolanda Brunson-Sarrabo Moderator & Contributor
Yes, growth is about the inner strength tapped into when we're hit with the news off an unpleasant diagnosis. It's within all but takes a bit more effort and tapping to grasp this.
1. Yolanda Brunson-Sarrabo Moderator & Contributor
 Indeed.
2. Yolanda Brunson-Sarrabo Moderator & Contributor
 Yes, this is where it gets dicey as many are too scared to process and move along- many give up to the fight that is necessary.
Ann Harper Moderator & Contributor
I experienced 'post traumatic growth' after my diagnosis. It didn't happen right away. For me it happened 2 years later when I found out my cancer had metastasized. The doctors weren't able to do anything then and put me on watch and wait mode. I started to research on my own and changed my whole way of life. I feel good and look better than I have in a long time. The best news is that the growth of the cancer has slowed down. I've also learned a lot. While I would prefer not to have cancer, I'm glad about the path I'm on.
1. Ann Harper Moderator & Contributor
 That's one of the things I'm hoping will happen!
2. Racheli Alkobey Moderator & Contributor
 I have faith that it will 😀
Crystal Harper Moderator
This is too funny- I also just learned that "post-traumatic growth" existed through an audiobook I was listening to and it was like an ah-ha moment for me. I actually wrote it down because I wanted to come back to it later and journal about it! i think for me, it took some time to see the good in my cancer journey, but I completely agree that there is something good that comes out of even the worst times. Sometimes realizing that takes years, but I truly believe this! Love your positive outlook!
1. Ann Harper Moderator & Contributor
 What book were you reading?
2. Racheli Alkobey Moderator & Contributor
 I love that it came up for you in a book! That's amazing. I totally agree and I think that no matter how long it takes, as long as you get there you are in a good place. Sometimes it takes a while for us to fully heal and allow ourselves the opportunity to grow. Also, what book were you listening to?!