A diagnosis of life-limiting cancer often leads to feelings of panic and anxiety but can also serve as a catalyst for profound life changes. Some individuals, rather than succumbing to despair, use the diagnosis as an opportunity to live life more adventurously, quitting toxic jobs and pursuing new experiences.
This dual nature of cancer’s impact—bringing both distress and an unexpected license to live differently—was the focus of research published in Sociology of Health & Illness, which aimed to understand the experiences of cancer survivors.
The study involved interviews with 81 New Zealanders, including both Māori and non-Māori, who had outlived their initial terminal cancer diagnoses by four to 32 years, as well as 25 of their supporters. The researchers discovered a wide range of responses to the diagnosis.
Among the 81 participants, 26 reported that the cancer diagnosis had some positive impact on their lives. These individuals often took significant steps to transform their lives, without ignoring the accompanying negative aspects of their illness.
For many, a cancer diagnosis acted as a wake-up call, prompting them to make substantial life changes. Some created and pursued bucket lists, traveling or relocating, while others embraced cultural adventures or new skills.
Many participants changed jobs to ones they found more fulfilling, altered their relationships, and started showing more affection and kindness. Some people became more selective about their social circles, avoiding negativity and taking up new, healing hobbies.
The study highlighted that a cancer diagnosis could lead to deep personal transformations. For instance, one individual turned to Māori traditional healing and found a profound sense of purpose. Others felt liberated to defy societal norms, such as the pressure to maintain a steady job or be thrifty.
However, not everyone had the resources or physical capability to make such changes, and some aimed to keep their lives as normal as possible despite their diagnosis.
This research underscores the varied responses to a cancer diagnosis and the potential for positive change. It also stresses the importance of supporting individuals in finding opportunities to live differently when they have the capacity.
By documenting these experiences, the study advocates for a reframing of cancer narratives to acknowledge both the potential for positive life changes and the significant challenges that accompany a cancer diagnosis.
