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Today marks the beginning of my tenth year living with neuroendocrine cancer.

My diagnostic journey lasted only seven weeks, and like so many others, I was shocked and overwhelmed when I heard the words: Stage IV, incurable cancer. In late July 2016, I could not imagine what my life might look like ten years later. And yet, here I am, thankful, joyful, and living well.

Have I always trusted the process since that diagnosis? More often than not, I have.

When I realized I could not blindly accept my first general oncologist’s prognosis of three to five years, incurable and inoperable, I immediately shifted into research mode. I immersed myself in social media groups and online resources to connect with other neuroendocrine cancer patients. It did not take long to discover credible, research-based medical resources that opened my eyes to important facts, treatment advances, and the dedicated professionals and advocates who provided the hope and encouragement I needed.

Much like creating an outline for a term paper or writing a procedural manual, I learned that I needed a well-designed plan, one that would guide my actions even when results were not immediately visible.

Now, ten years later, I continue to trust the process.

Since 2016, I have worked with oncologists in three different cities. My current local oncologist is exceptionally knowledgeable about neuroendocrine cancer. My neuroendocrine specialist also serves as my surgeon. My primary care physician acts as the coordinator for all of my specialists, and thankfully, they all share the same patient portal system.

These details matter because they are an important part of my process. I have confidence in my medical team. Their expertise allows me to focus on what I can control instead of obsessing over what I cannot control or worrying about potential negative outcomes.

Over the years, I have learned to pay attention to trends in my lab work and scans rather than reacting emotionally to a single number or image that appears concerning. Living with neuroendocrine cancer has taught me that one isolated result rarely tells the whole story. The long view is often the most accurate one.

Perhaps the most difficult lesson has been learning to trust evidence and discipline more than my emotions. An advertising slogan from the 1960s often comes to mind: “Leave the driving to us.” For me, that means trusting the expertise of the professionals guiding my care while remaining an active participant in the journey.

At the same time, I pace myself and maintain an enduring curiosity about neuroendocrine cancer research and treatment developments. These habits help me stay committed to proven steps, even when the uncertainty of living with a chronic disease threatens my sense of security.

Today, my sights are set on reaching another decade of living well with neuroendocrine cancer. In July, my annual scan and recent lab work will either confirm or adjust my current oncology status of “essentially stable.” Whatever the results may be, I am confident that I will continue doing the things that have served me well and make adjustments to the process when necessary.

One of the greatest lessons I have learned over the past ten years is that trusting the process does not mean ignoring reality. It means building a foundation of knowledge, assembling a team you trust, staying engaged in your care, and moving forward one step at a time.

Here at NCAN, we want to be part of your plan for living well with neuroendocrine cancer. Through our patient conferences, online support meetings, educational videos, and hotline services, our mission is simple: helping one another navigate this journey with knowledge, hope, and support.

Together, we can continue to trust the process. We are here. (For you.)