When Cancer Fatigue Isn’t Just Physical

Cancer fatigue. I have it and I think some of my friends and family have it. After six years of battling this, I am tired. But it’s more than a physical fatigue – it can be mental fatigue.

The News I Didn’t Expect

I went for my post-surgery follow up in good spirits expecting happy news. Instead, I was told the cancer is still there. The doctor told me all my options, but I couldn’t concentrate. I broke down and cried. Cancer fatigue. I am so tired of this.

When the Conversation Gets Quiet

Sometimes I don’t want to talk about “it” anymore. I know my friends and family don’t want to talk about “it.” Some don’t even ask about “it” anymore. Now, there is nothing wrong with that. Cancer is awkward, uncomfortable, and stressful. I am sure my loved ones can sense when I don’t want to talk about “it”. But I am not so sure they can pick up on when I do want to talk about my struggles with cancer. I am inconsistent with my feelings, which can cause major problems in communication.

Cancer Fatigue Affects More Than Patients

According to the Macmillian Cancer Support webpage, those living with you or acting as your primary caregivers may become physically and emotionally exhausted by the long-term, repetitive nature of treatment. Outsiders may mistakenly assume that since the initial crisis of the diagnosis has passed, the cancer journey becomes “routine,” losing their urgency to check in.

Honest Conversations Matter

The best way to maneuver through this is to have honest conversations. Tell your loved ones how you feel. All of this is confusing, and you never really know how you will be feeling from day to day. If your loved ones are avoiding talking to you, reach out and ask about their lives, work, or hobbies to reestablish a connection. And the same advice goes for those wanting to reengage with their friends with cancer.

Why Keith the Cat Matters More Than Ever

When I first established Keith the Cat Foundation, it was to provide comfort. Now I want to also raise awareness. I want to highlight others who have stories to tell. I cannot get cancer fatigue for Keith the Cat Foundation. It’s too important. As my wonderful supporters, I ask that you don’t get cancer fatigue for Keith the Cat. If you can, please donate a few bucks so that I can keep Keith the Cat active. We have had three hospitals asks for care packages. We want to send to more. If you can, please continue to support our little foundation. My dream is that Keith the Cat becomes a forever companion for children with cancer. You all have stuck with me since the beginning, and I thank you.

Please help me beat cancer fatigue!

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Liz Sherman- Founder of the Keith the Cat Foundation

Elizabeth “Liz” Sherman is a 1991 graduate of Texas A&M University and has worked for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) for the past 25 years. Liz was hired as an imagery intelligence analyst covering regional and counterterrorism issues mostly in the African and Latin American regions.

She started the Keith the Cat Foundation to help those who are fighting cancer or any illness or battle. Her rescue cat, Keith, helped her get through her own battle with cancer. He was her constant companion who knew when she needed cuddles.

See all posts by Liz.