Your Path to Hope Resources

A brain cancer journey is marked not only by the physical challenges but also by the relentless barrage of “what ifs” and the weight of the watch-and-wait moments. In this article, we’ll delve into the depths of these emotions and explore strategies for navigating them with resilience, hope, and courage.The “What Ifs”: “What if…” – two simple words that hold within them the power to unleash a torrent of anxiety and uncertainty. What if the treatment doesn’t work? What if the cancer spreads? What if the cancer comes back? Each question is like a dagger to the heart, threatening to …

A brain cancer diagnosis triggers intense emotions, particularly anger, fear, and sadness. Navigating through this emotional turbulence is a daunting task, but it is possible to find ways to cope and adapt. Here, we explore practical strategies for coping with anger and fear throughout the challenging journey that a brain cancer diagnosis brings. Understanding Emotions:Anger may stem from feelings of injustice, frustration, or helplessness in the face of a disease that disrupts life plans and expectations. Fear, on the other hand, arises from the uncertainty of the future, concerns about treatment outcomes, and the existential threat posed by the illness.

Receiving a brain cancer diagnosis can feel like a sudden storm hitting your life, leaving you confused and overwhelmed. Besides the physical challenges, the emotional turmoil can be intense, especially the unwarranted anxiety that may show up throughout your brain cancer journey. Living with a brain tumor can be an exceptionally worrying time. However, there are many ways to help you cope with brain tumor anxiety.Distract yourselfTalk to othersPractice mindfulnessPsychological therapies for coping with brain tumor anxietyCognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)Applied relaxationPsychological TherapiesMedication Engage in Distraction: Keeping yourself occupied can be an effective strategy to divert your mind from worries. Exploring new hobbies, …

Losing a loved one is the hardest thing anyone will have to go through. Brain cancer does not discriminate, and it seems always to impact the greatest people. In March of 2016, my mom was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma, and my life turned upside down in an instant. After nine short months of treatment, radiation, Avastin, and immunotherapy, nothing else could be done and we had to move her into hospice. During those nine months, anticipatory grief struck deeply. Despite assuming the role of strength for my family, I …

Anticipatory grief is a complex emotional process that many brain tumor patients and their caregivers experience as they face the challenges of a serious illness.Anticipatory grief refers to the mourning and emotional preparation that individuals undergo when expecting the eventual loss of a loved one. For brain tumor patients and caregivers, this process often begins upon diagnosis as they confront the uncertain future and potential changes in their lives.Dealing with a brain tumor diagnosis adds distinctive challenges to the anticipatory grief experience.

Written by Lisa Lenrow | Brains for the Cure Ambassador I got married late in life, having met my husband at 49. Three years after our blind date, Jon proposed.  As I had been dreaming about …

Although brain tumors and brain cancer continues to impact thousands of people each year, this disease can still feel incredibly isolating. As more awareness is built surrounding this disease, it allows patients, survivors, caregivers, and …

Written by: Courtney Benisch | Regional Relationship Coordinator for Head for the Cure and Brains for the Cure Ambassador The past year has been tough mentally, physically, and emotionally. In an all-consuming time where we are …

Determining Your Legacy How does you want to be remembered? What steps can you take to determine your legacy now? Memories for Loved Ones There are many options to ensure special memories remain after a …

As you manage the grief of losing your loved one, it can be hard to think of ever moving forward. Your loved one will always be a part of your life in your thoughts and …