Common Denominators

I remember at one point a couple of years ago asking my doctor, "What do you feel are the common denominators in your patients that survived?"  I knew this was a loaded question perhaps, and of course, subjective, but my curious nature couldn't help but inquire.

 

 

His response?  "Well, I think it might be a lot of things, but a positive attitude gets you far."

 

 

At the time, I was satisfied with his answer (because it made sense to me), but then I decided to do a little of my own research in finding out what other possible "common denominators" there might be between cancer survivors.

 

 

Now, my conclusion (after talking to lots of cancer survivors)...And I admit is totally MY own opinion.  I have met a lot of cancer survivors, and many who were given a poor prognosis just like me.  Upon talking to them and getting to hear their stories, I believe that my doctor is right, attitude is everything.

 

 

And I mean EVERYTHING.

 

 

People who ignore the statistics, I think, in general fare better.

 

 

People who maintain a positive outlook on life and throughout their challenges, in my opinion, often do better than those who have a poor attitude.

 

 

Those that don't give up because that isn't even an option, live longer.

 

 

But there's more.  I think there are some other common denominators between cancer survivors:

 

 

1.  They are their own best advocates when it comes to their health care.

 

2.  They have a good support network.

 

3.  They believe in a God or some "supreme being" and exercise their faith.

 

4.  They do everything they can to have success with treatments.  They adopt a healthier lifestyle.  Or maybe that means "thinking outside of the box" and combining uncoventional with conventional treatments.

 

5.  They take risks (such as choosing a cutting-edge chinical trial).

 

6.  They enjoy life despite their challenges and set-backs.

 

7.  They are happy.

 

8.  They allow others to help and support them when times call for it--physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

 

9.  They take care of themselves, eating healthy and exercising.

 

10.  Last but not least, they pray.  The power of prayer is a real!

 

 

I'm sure there are many more common denominators.  I know that even if one has all of these attributes it doesn't mean they will get the desired outcome, but I don't think they hurt either!

 

 

What has helped you survive cancer?