An article brought to you by Dara Kurtz. Dara Kurtz is a breast cancer survivor and provides Survivor Mentorship & Support at Cancer Services.
After going through breast cancer over twelve years ago, my life has been broken down into two categories: “BC,” which stands for before cancer, and “AC,” which means after cancer. I had to begin to move forward and create my new normal, learn to live as a cancer survivor, and make intentional decisions. That doesn’t mean I had it all figured out.
As we step into January, this new year can be an opportunity to reflect on how you’re living your life as a cancer survivor. It can be a chance to take charge of your choices, consider what you want for yourself, and act intentionally. Life might look different, “AC,” after cancer, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be happy and joyful. Regardless of where you are in your cancer journey, here are some essential things to think about:
What do you want for yourself?
Going through a cancer diagnosis changes a person, and it takes time to figure out your new normal. Your body might feel different, there might be some lingering side effects from treatment, or you might be physically and emotionally tired.
Release the pressure to be the way you used to be, “BC,” before cancer. Instead, let yourself reflect on what you want for the rest of your life. Really think about this. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself with new priorities and perspectives.
Set intentions that are meaningful to you.
Identify specific goals that honor the version of yourself you are right now. Focus on what brings you meaning, and let go of the need to be perfect. Remember, small weekly or daily steps will help you achieve your goals. I love the saying, “A goal without a plan is a wish.” Figure out what you need to do to help yourself get what you want.
Take an active role in your health.
Your health deserves a place in this. Make sure you keep up with your doctor’s appointments, ask for help when you need it, and figure out what you need to do each day to stay as healthy as possible. Cancer Services offers many resources to guide you.
Spend your time wisely.
Permit yourself to think about what matters to you, how you want to spend your time, and who you want to be with. Let go of guilt, unrealistic expectations, or negative self-talk. Set boundaries that align with your priorities, and let go of obligations that no longer fit who you are.
Move forward with hope.
Going through a cancer diagnosis is challenging. Honor what you’ve been through, and commit to moving forward with positivity and resilience. There might be uncertainty, but that doesn’t have to be your focus. Instead, trust yourself, lean on your community, and get excited about the goals you’ve set.
As we enter 2026, use this new beginning as an opportunity to start fresh and help yourself make the most of the year ahead.
Dara Kurtz is a breast cancer survivor and provides Survivor Mentorship & Support at Cancer Services. To read more tips from Dara Kurtz, check out our Empowered Living Page. You can also check out her substack page here!
Choose One (or All) of our January Challenges!
- Read Dara’s January Empowered Living article and journal about what “taking charge” of your health means to you for this year. DONE!! – contact us to get a sticker for your passport!
- Create your vision journal at the January Art & Wellness workshop (virtual or in person at Cancer Services, Inc. office).
- Read The Cancer Dietitian’s nutrition myth busting article: Does Sugar Feed Cancer?
- Watch one of our expert interviews on a topic that interests you! Find them here: cancerservicesonline.org/expert
- Register and complete your assessment for the Get Real & Heel functional fitness program!
