Things you may hear about
Everyone with cancer has a different journey, and so we’ll hear lots of different things from people who have survived cancer. It’s hard to remember all the information. Some of the things we hear may be difficult to understand or accept. It is important to remember that everyone’s symptoms and treatment are different so what one person experiences may not be the same as you. It does not mean they are wrong, it’s just different.
Our spiritual and cultural beliefs about what causes serious illness might be something we consider when diagnosed with cancer. Our beliefs might not be the same as our doctor, nurse or Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander health worker. It is important to yarn about these things with your health team and family.
Cancer is not:
- your fault
- a breach of cultural protocols
- taboo, or
- a disease you can catch from someone else.
Here are a few things that you might hear about.
