Attaining Wellness after Cancer Treatment Requires Command By June Scharf t’s the cruel creep of fear. The seeming loss of control. The uncertainty. These are some of the vertiginous mental and emotional issues many people face after completing treatment for cancer. They collectively cast a long shadow, but methods exist to replace them with a more healing light. In fact, Hayley Dubin, a health coach to cancer survivors and founder of Beachwood-based reVIVE wellness (www.revivewellness. com), teaches her clients how to bask in that light’s glow and take command over their lives. As a cancer survivor who has put 16 years between herself and treatment for stage 3 ovarian cancer, Dubin understands I what people are facing from the outset. “They are used to regular doctor visits, but (with that routine no longer in place) they might be feeling alone,” Dubin says, “and they suddenly begin to do a lot of soul searching.” She begins by helping them answer the question, what do I do now? The key is to claim that which is within their grasp, including what they choose to put in and on their body, reducing their stress level, introducing physical activity and achieving a balanced lifestyle. But first, they need to acknowledge and own their feelings, rather than dodging or repressing them, Dubin says. Next, she recommends taking control, initially by treating themselves as they would a best friend. “Put yourself first,” she recommends. “I see cancer survivors as extremely resilient and strong, but they often see themselves as weak.” She also believes in the necessity to tap into their own innate strength. “I see cancer survivors as extremely resilient and strong, but they often see themselves as weak.” What can contribute to this perspective is their need for support when they are accustomed to being the caregiver, combined with an unwillingness to “burden” others. Dubin suggests dealing with this by making a list of needs for a spouse or children to read, if they would prefer not to articulate them. Also, writing a letter telling It’s time for your Heating “Tune-Up” to make sure you are comfortable for winter! Expires 2/28/15 16 Beachwood Buzz n January 2015