how have y'all been coping with fear, insomnia, due to being in remission?

I think one of the hardest parts of remission can be dealing with the fear that the disease might return, even when there are no signs of it. When those worries start affecting sleep, it may help to establish a consistent bedtime routine, practice relaxation techniques, and avoid spending too much time searching for symptoms late at night. Talking with your healthcare team or a counselor about the fear of recurrence can also be helpful. Sometimes connecting with others who have gone through a similar experience makes it easier to manage the uncertainty. It is important to remember that remission is a meaningful milestone, and you deserve time to focus on your well-being and recovery.

Hi, !

Just checking back in to see how you are doing. I know it's only been a month or so, but have you been able to process some of the feelings you have been dealing with. Also, I know I already mentioned our site dedicated to MG, but I found a specific piece on fear and MG that I thought you might find interesting -- https://myasthenia-gravis.com/living/worried-thoughts. I do hope you are doing well!

Best, Erin, Team Member.

Hi, !

I am so sorry I didn't see your comment before now! I am so glad your lung cancer is in remission, but I think I can understand dealing with fear and insomnia. I mean, when anyone hears the word "cancer", it can feel like having a ticking time bomb in your body. And every time you need to get tests done to see if you are still in remission can feel like being stuck in limbo. I don't think your feelings are unusual in any way. The C word tends to have that effect. It comes in like a tornado and even after its gone, it can leave quite a mess in its wake. If you're interested, we do have a sister site dedicated specifically to lung cancer -- https://lungcancer.net/. You might find people there that can relate to how you are feeling in a way that those of us that haven't battled cancer just can't. I thought you might find this article on the topic of life after remission useful -- https://lungcancer.net/living/no-evidence-of-disease. (Also, we do have a site dedicated to MG as well -- https://myasthenia-gravis.com/. )I know I am not offering much helpful advice here, but I want to say that I think your feelings and experiences are valid and normal and I am so glad you are open to sharing them in places like this. I know everyone thinks achieving remission is like crossing the finish line, but, there's a whole life on the other side of the finish line and remission is only one goal accomplished in the journey of a cancer diagnosis.

You're not alone in this. Congratulations on your remission. That IS a big accomplishment! And I do hope you and your doctors are able to get a handle on the MG symptoms you are dealing with so you can start feeling better and maybe getting some good sleep!

Best, Erin, Team Member.