Survivor voices nurture hope and belonging
Storytelling is a powerful way for cancer survivors to heal and find strength. Sharing lived experiences helps others feel less alone and brings comfort to those who are newly diagnosed. When we tell our stories, we not only remind ourselves of our inner strength but also give others the courage to keep going. Storytelling builds community, connection, and courage to live fully beyond cancer.
- Community: It brings survivors, caregivers, and professionals together, building a network of mutual support. No one should walk the cancer journey alone.
- Connection: It helps us see ourselves in others’ stories. This shared understanding deepens empathy, trust, and belonging.
- Courage to live beyond cancer: Real stories of recovery inspire survivors to rediscover purpose and confidence. They remind us that while cancer changes life, it does not define it.
My Story: Who Am I After Cancer?
I was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer in 2016. The first thought that came to my mind was, “I’m going to die.” My youngest daughter was only five years old, and my eldest son had just left for college. Receiving a cancer diagnosis is never easy. Life changes instantly. I grieve the loss of who I used to be. I felt deep fear and shame. I didn’t know what the future would look like or if I would survive treatment. But I told myself I had to stay strong for my daughter. I went through six cycles of chemotherapy and 28 sessions of radiotherapy. It was not easy, but I found courage in learning about my illness. I started reading and researching, understanding medical terms, side effects, and treatment options. This helped me feel more in control and less afraid. Knowing what to expect gave me confidence to make decisions and communicate better with my doctors. I reminded myself: “Do not let the disease control me.”
After treatment, I made a promise to myself that is to live fully and find new meaning. I started exercising regularly, taking care of my body and mind. I became a Guided Patient Navigator, helping others with cancer break down barriers and find hope. Sharing my story gave me courage and purpose. It inspired me to pursue a Master of Counselling at Open University Malaysia, so I can provide free counselling to cancer patients and survivors.
Self-Efficacy: Believing in my own ability to cope and heal
When you first learn that you have cancer, it is normal to feel like your life is out of control. Common thoughts may include “I feel like I’m going to die. I can’t do the things I used to do. I feel helpless and lonely. I don’t understand these medical terms.”
Cancer brings many fears like fear of pain, side effects, losing your job, financial stress or not being able to care for your family. I learned that knowledge and self-efficacy can reduce fear. When we take small steps to learn, ask questions, and care for ourselves, we start to rebuild confidence and regain control.
Understanding my illness helped me manage my emotions and make informed choices. I learned that being well-informed often leads to better treatment outcomes and faster recovery. Self-efficacy is not about being fearless. It is about believing you can cope, even when things feel uncertain.
Thriving Beyond Cancer
Today, I see myself not just as a survivor, but as someone who continues to grow. My cancer journey has taught me resilience, compassion, and a meaning of life. Through counseling, I hope to help others see that recovery is more than surviving, it is about thriving.
By sharing our stories, we build hope, connection, and courage, for ourselves and for everyone walking the same path. Our stories connect us, remind us of our strength, and inspire us to live each new day with gratitude and courage. Each story of survival reminds us that healing is possible, and life after cancer can be filled with meaning, courage, and hope.
About the Author:
Janie Lim is a trainee counsellor currently pursuing a Master of Counselling at Open University Malaysia. She is a Stage 3 colon cancer survivor who brings personal insight, empathy, and hope to those navigating similar journeys. Drawing from her lived experience and professional training in Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused approaches, she supports individuals in managing emotional distress and building resilience. Her passion lies in serving and advocating for the cancer community and underserved groups, creating safe and supportive spaces for healing and hope.