Lessons In Mental Resilience From Pancreatic Cancer Survivors

The definition of Mental Resilience can dramatically change based on the obstacles you are facing. One day you may be faced with a tough work deadline and the next day a life changing cancer diagnosis that puts the work deadline into perspective. Over the past 6 years I have focused my research on stories of mental resilience, as well as people who are making a difference in the lives of others.  I recently ran across the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and found an organization that is doing fantastic work in both areas. The Survivor Stories (Link) and their Advocacy Efforts (Link) are a template for any organization.  After reading countless survivor stories, I have found 6 reoccurring themes that could help anyone trying to build their mental resilience.  

• They lean on family & friends.
• They seek professional medical help and explore all options.
• They focus on trying to maintain a positive attitude.
• They understand the unavoidable emotional roller coaster. 
• They develop an appreciation of each day.
• They keep a sense of hope.

I have highlighted two survival stories below, but please check out www.pancan.org for more information.

Jay Coulter 

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Diane Borrison

From pancan.org: "I hope that my story will both give hope and inspire others to join the fight. As my granddaughters so rightly say, "We don't think its right that the message pancreatic cancer patients receive is that they will be lucky to survive their cancer. There should be reliable, effective treatments and not just luck." 

Read her full story here (Link)

Peter Suess

Frompancan.org: "You cannot fight this alone.  You need your faith, your family, a medical team you trust, friends and a positive attitude.

I want to give special thanks to the caregivers out there.  We could not get through any of it without you.

Everyone has to dig in for the fight!  We are in a marathon and not a sprint.  We must continue the fight so researchers can pursue new options to give people more time.  I am living proof that research works."

Read his full story here: Link

Pancreatic Cancer Survivor Peter Suess's PanCan 5K Opening Speech