Survivorship Program
Overview
The journey which cancer patients experience is complicated and arduous. Happily, more and more patients are following that journey to the point of survivorship with no evidence of cancer whatsoever.
The term “survivorship” has taken on many definitions, ranging from any patient or loved one from the moment of diagnosis to only those patients who are apparently cancer-free and remain so for a specific period of time. Each of these definitions has its merit and place. For purposes of the Survivorship Program at Moffitt, we use the term to mean patients whose therapeutic cancer treatments are complete (including chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation) and who have no evidence of cancer for some time (depending on the type of cancer).
Being a survivor carries its own set of challenges for many patients. They may experience a sense of disconnection as their intense relationships with dedicated Moffitt physicians and staff come to a close. They may need to deal with side-effects from both their cancer as well as its treatments. Emotional needs may arise, and new illness may occur more frequently and require expert evaluation. Cancer and chemotherapy may place patients at higher risk for other cancers or unrelated diseases, and follow-up plans for surveillance and prevention can be complex.
Moffitt has recognized the importance of providing a comprehensive program for cancer survivors, known as the Survivorship Program at Moffitt Cancer Center.
Who Can Sign Up
What Can I Expect
Survivorship as Research
Learning More
Other Resources
Survivorship Article in Oncology Nursing Forum, July 2009:
Cancer Survivorship: History, Quality-of-Life Issues, and the Evolving Multidisciplinary Approach to Implementation of Cancer Survivorship Care Plans
By Mary Ann Morgan, PhD, ARNP
Moffitt Cancer Center
Survivorship Article in the St. Petersburg Times, April 8, 2011:
Cancer survivors find strength, support in YMCA's LiveStrong program
* Please note we cannot guarantee the accuracy or availability of this link. This story belongs to its publisher, and the link may expire. Some news sites require you to register and select a password in order to retrieve articles, but most usually do not charge a fee to retrieve news stories.
Videos
Appreciating Life
Survivorship and Depression
Survivorship - Patient Stories (videos)
Linda & CJ - Ovarian Cancer
Bob - Bladder Cancer
Liliana - Breast Cancer (En español)
Shirley & Michael - Colorectal Cancer
Joshua - Sarcoma
Elaine - Oral Cancer