Blogs

This time of the year is a natural time to pause, reflect, and take stock of life—an opportunity to process the journey, acknowledge victories, and prepare for the year ahead. For cancer patients and their caregivers, this reflection can hold even greater meaning, serving as a reminder of resilience and the progress made, even in the face of adversity.

As doctors who specialize in oncology, we often encourage our patients to embrace this period as a time of healing- not just physically but emotionally and spiritually. Reflection can provide clarity, hope, and renewed strength to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.

Why Is Reflection Important in the Cancer Journey?

Reflection allows patients to recognize the strides they've made, even if they feel small. It helps highlight victories, like completing treatment cycles, regaining strength, or finding moments of joy despite the hardship.

From a medical perspective, oncologists see reflection as a way for patients to better connect with their overall wellness journey. By focusing on what has gone well, patients can reinforce a positive mindset, which is proven to contribute to better health outcomes.

For caregivers, this reflection can serve as a moment of gratitude and acknowledgment of their vital role in the patient's healing process. It’s an opportunity to recharge emotionally, knowing that their support has made a difference.

Acknowledge the Progress Made

No matter where you are in your cancer journey—newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, or in remission- it’s essential to take a moment to acknowledge the progress you’ve made.

Doctors often remind patients that progress doesn’t have to mean dramatic milestones like being declared cancer-free. It could mean smaller victories, such as:

• Adapting to treatment routines.
• Managing side effects better than before.
• Rebuilding physical strength with therapies like movement therapy.
• Discovering inner resilience you didn’t know you had.

Even on the toughest days, surviving is progress. Caregivers, too, should reflect on how they've adapted to their roles and provided comfort and care in ways that may have gone unnoticed in the moment.

Patients are encouraged to recall times when they laughed, shared meaningful conversations with loved ones, or achieved something they thought impossible during treatment. From a caregiver’s perspective, these moments might include the quiet satisfaction of seeing their loved one smile or overcoming a particularly hard day together.

Doctors recognize the therapeutic benefits of celebrating joy—it helps patients and caregivers build emotional resilience, strengthening their ability to cope with the ongoing challenges of cancer care.

What Can You Learn from This Year?

Reflection is not just about looking back; it’s about learning and preparing for what’s ahead. Ask yourself and your loved ones:

• What has this year taught you about yourself?
• How have you grown stronger, emotionally or physically?
• In which areas could you use more support or guidance?

Doctors often encourage patients to communicate openly about their reflections. If you’ve realized you need more emotional or physical support, consider reaching out to your healthcare team. If you feel proud of specific achievements, share them—it can deepen the bond between you and your caregivers.

Set Intentions for the Year Ahead

While resolutions can sometimes feel overwhelming, setting simple intentions for the upcoming year can offer a sense of direction and hope. Oncologists recommend focusing on realistic and health-oriented goals, such as:

• Building strength through gentle movement therapy or physical rehabilitation.
• Staying consistent with follow-up appointments and screenings.
• Practicing self-compassion and allowing yourself to rest when needed.
• Spending more time with loved ones or pursuing activities that bring you happiness.

Caregivers can set their own intentions as well. They might aim to prioritize their self-care, seek support when needed, or continue advocating for their loved ones with renewed energy.

Gratitude can be a transformative practice for both patients and caregivers. Reflecting on what you’re grateful for whether it’s the support of family, a skilled medical team, or simply making it through another day can shift focus from what’s lacking to what’s present.

A simple practice is to note down three things you’re grateful for at the end of each day or week. Caregivers can join this practice, fostering mutual positivity in the caregiving dynamic.

Reflection is also an opportunity to evaluate your support system. Patients can consider whether they feel adequately supported by friends, family, or healthcare professionals.

From a doctor’s perspective, patients are encouraged to reach out if they feel isolated or overwhelmed. Many hospitals and cancer centres, including MIOIC, offers access to counselling, support groups, and specialized care like onco-psychotherapists who can aid in emotional recovery.

The end of the year is not just a time to look back but also to look forward- with strength, courage, and the knowledge that you are not alone in this journey.

Dr. Chandrashekhar Pethe
MD DM
Senior Cancer Physician
Hope - M | O | C Cancer Care & Research Centre, Nashik.