A pain management presentation for cancer patients introduced me to the concept of learning to “break through” pain cycles. Before that, I simply endured my pain—suffering through it, giving in to it at times, or getting lost in the unfairness of it all.

Then I learned about riding the waves of pain, much like a surfer rides the ocean’s swells. What little I know about surfing, I understand about becoming one with the force rushing toward you—just like learning to live with Neuroendocrine Cancer (NETs).

Finding Your Zen Zebra
Zen is often defined as “a state of calm attentiveness.” It’s a mindfulness practice that encourages healthy thinking and balance. You make space in your mind for joy and contentment, rather than allowing pain to take over. Applying this mindset to life with NETs invites you to approach pain differently—not as something to fight, but something to acknowledge and manage.

One of the most effective techniques in pain management is learning to Stop, Redirect, and Refocus when feeling overwhelmed. It takes practice, but shifting your perspective can make a world of difference.

Pain as an immediate reaction to an injury is your body becoming hypersensitive. With chronic pain, the signals can become amplified and get stuck in a cycle even after your body is healed. If unaddressed, this pain can contribute to depression, anxiety,  sleep disruption, and perhaps social isolation.

Stop: Acknowledge & Define Your Pain

When pain is especially acute, pause. Take a moment to define it. Is it something new, or just more of the same? This awareness is the first step in breaking through the pain cycle.

Imagine yourself with glowing zebra stripes, finding light in dark moments. Think of yourself as becoming more resilient, growing in your ability to understand and manage your pain. You are not just enduring—you are evolving.

Redirect your thoughts
Instead of thinking, “There’s something wrong,” try reframing it:

• “Pain is an alarm that protects me, but sometimes my body can be super sensitive.”

• “This hurts, but I am still here.”

Pain doesn’t always mean damage. Sometimes, it’s a signal to rest and recharge. Other times, it’s just background noise that doesn’t define your entire experience. It’s like my frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom—frustrating, yes, but also a sign that my kidneys are working well.

Find your personal mantra that reminds you: your body is stronger than you think, even on tough days. Hold on to the hope that you can—and will—find relief.

Refocus: Shift Your Energy Toward Joy

Pain can be exhausting, but where you place your attention matters. Instead of dwelling on the discomfort, focus on what brings you joy and fulfillment. Each day, take a Zen moment to reflect:

• What must I do today?

• What do I want to do today?

Aim to check off at least one from each list. Budget your energy. Respect your pain, but don’t let it define you. Celebrate small victories—whether it’s getting out of bed, taking a walk, or simply laughing at a silly joke.

Using mindfulness to separate physical pain from emotional suffering can help you regain control. It’s always a work in progress, but it works. And on days when it feels impossible, remember—you are not alone.

NCAN: Your Support When the Waves Get Rough
Living with NETs is a journey, and just like a surfer needs balance, so do we. Some days the waves are rough. Some days the water is calm. But through it all, NCAN is here for you—with resources, community, and support to help you find your balance.

Because no zebra should have to ride the waves alone.

Find out more about how YOU can help the NET Community.