I just wondered how others remained positive. I got the one year all clear in Feb 21 and was absolutely delighted, but when I’m awake in the middle of the night the thoughts of a return of cancer occupy my mind . I make myself think about other things so I don’t dwell too much. How do other people cope with these types of thoughts ? Thank you 
I not sure I’ve achieved that yet and I’m nearly 2 years post treatment. I think it just takes time, you’ve been through a lot and it’s important not to try to bury that as it has an awful habit of returning when you least expect it.
Im speaking to a counsellor and learning how to sit with the emotions and to acknowledge them rather than try to ignore how I feel or I thinking I should be doing better than I am. It’s not easy though. Someone recommended the Cancer Survivors Companion by Lucy Atkins which I found really useful after treatment ended. I hope some others come along and share what’s helped them xx
Wonderful news on 1 year on!!
Im at the very start, soon to finish 15 rounds of radiotherapy (and 6 cycles of chemo). I have been so positive throughout this journey but the doubts and worries have just hit me. Would love to hear how other people are managing to stay strong.
Sending happy thoughts.
HIya,
I read your message and I could have typed that…
It’s a bizarre place we’re in mentally isn’t it? My other-half, of 18 years, says I’m acting like I’ve had a cold not cancer and should take time to let myself heal…but even when he says that it sound serious…and I’m trying to forget the blasted ‘C’ word… He’s been wonderful but my mind is dipping in and out of planning for the future and planning my funeral…I’m currently selling things on Ebay 
…Tis crazy…
My family have been very supportive. My mum had breast cancer when she was 36, mastectomy and no other treatments except she was a ‘tester’ for Tamoxifen…back in the 80’s…she is 76 in May. We don’t have the gene but she just keeps telling me that I’ll be fine when she hasn’t experienced chemo or radiotherapy. Like you say though it’s the thoughts that are troubling…I try to keep them to myself and think my diagnosis could have been worse.
I just hope my mental state will improve…thinking of using the ‘Someone like me’ service that is being offered…to maybe calm myself dowm…
Good luck and best wishes…x
I think the answer is ‘ you can’t’ but that said, it’s about how you manage the worry.
we are all different and different things will work for each of us.
ive had BC 3 times now and I actually expect to get it again based on my odds up to now…but it doesn’t consume my thoughts like it did after my first diagnosis … odd really…it is what it is I guess…hope you find a way forward
Its hard not to dwell on the fear isn’t it, I had stage 3a 90mm lump, finished active treatment Jan 2020 but convinced I still have cancer in my body, I try to be positive but its hard getting past the worry, I’m trying to get back into work but struggling as often feel ill and tired and not experienced in anything much just a bit of care work and do I tell them I’ve had cancer, sorry not much help to answer your question hun xxx