These words offer valuable advice for anyone living with neuroendocrine cancer (NETs). Staying active, both physically and mentally, can help us face the challenges of this disease.

Our doctors often encourage us to remain as physically active as our health allows. In patient support groups, we hear inspiring stories of people who are up and walking just hours after major surgery. But every patient’s journey is different.

My own experience taught me a simple lesson: “Walk when you can, rest when you must.” Nine years later, I still follow that advice.

But physical activity is only part of the challenge. Maintaining our emotional and mental well-being is just as important, and sometimes much harder.

Taking a walk around the block may be simple compared to managing the thoughts and emotions that come with a cancer diagnosis.

So, let me ask you: Where is your mind these days? Are you living in the present, or are thoughts about the past and worries about the future taking up too much of your energy?

Learning to Let Go of the Past

Coming to terms with a cancer diagnosis is difficult. Acceptance takes time, and the emotional cost can be high.

It’s natural to look back and wonder whether things could have been different. We may replay conversations with doctors, question decisions, or wish our cancer had been discovered sooner.

We may also grieve the loss of our former lifestyle, independence, or sense of security. These feelings are real and deserve our attention.

But spending too much time looking backward can cause us to lose sight of the life still in front of us. Endless “what if” questions can leave us feeling sad, frustrated, or overwhelmed.

We cannot change the past. We can, however, learn from it and focus on what we can do today.

Facing the Fear of the Future

Just as dwelling on the past can drain our energy, worrying about the future can steal our peace of mind.

Anyone living with cancer knows how powerful the words “what if” can be.

What if my cancer progresses? What if my current treatment stops working? What if I need another surgery? What if there are no more treatment options?

These are understandable concerns. But when we constantly imagine the worst, we may find ourselves living through problems that have not happened, and may never happen.

I admit that fear of the unknown is one of my greatest challenges. Perhaps it is one of yours, too.

My approach has been to turn that fear into something useful. I read medical information, listen carefully to NET specialists, ask questions, and stay informed about new treatments and research.

Learning more about my disease helps me feel better prepared and gives me a greater sense of control over the decisions I can make.

I hope to live a long life while managing my cancer as it changes over time. I often think of this approach as playing a game of “whack-a-mole.” When one problem appears, we address it, adjust our plan, and keep going.

Fortunately, research continues, and advances in treatment give us reasons to remain hopeful.

Finding Peace in the Present

Perhaps one of the greatest challenges of living with neuroendocrine cancer is learning to live in the present.

When we begin to make peace with the past and manage our fears about the future, we create more room for the things that matter today.

We can enjoy time with family and friends, appreciate small pleasures, strengthen our relationships, and find joy in everyday experiences.

Acceptance does not mean giving up. It does not mean we stop hoping for better treatments or a longer life.

Acceptance means recognizing our reality while choosing how we want to live within it.

Understanding how cancer has changed our lives can also help us discover what matters most. We may find ourselves making different choices, setting new priorities, and appreciating things we once took for granted.

With time, we may discover a deeper sense of gratitude, purpose, and inner peace.

Of course, none of this happens overnight. Even after years of experience, I still have difficult days.

There will be setbacks. Treatments may need to change. Our energy levels may rise and fall. Sometimes we will feel strong and confident, and other times discouraged or afraid.

And that’s okay.

Just like riding a bicycle, we may hit a bump, lose our balance, or need to stop and rest.

What matters is that we continue moving forward, at whatever pace our health allows.

Rest when you need to. Ask for help when you need it. Celebrate the good days, and be kind to yourself on the difficult ones.

Moving Forward With Gratitude

As we enter this holiday season, all of us at NCAN hope you find many reasons to be thankful.

We are especially grateful for the patients, caregivers, families, medical professionals, and supporters who make our community so special.

Your kindness, encouragement, and willingness to share your experiences remind us that none of us has to face this journey alone.

At NCAN, our goal remains to provide support, education, and encouragement to everyone affected by neuroendocrine cancer. Whether you’re looking for information, support, or simply someone who understands, remember that We Are Here (For You).

As we look toward the future, remember that living well with cancer isn’t about having all the answers or being strong every moment.

It’s about finding balance, holding on to hope, and making the most of the life we have today.

And when the road gets bumpy, remember Einstein’s advice: Just keep moving.

This information is intended for general educational purposes. Always follow the storage and disposal instructions provided with your medication and talk with your pharmacist or healthcare provider if you have questions.

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