My mother is cancer-free five years after her breast cancer surgery. Yet she remains fearful that the cancer may come back. How can I help her?

Cancer is not something one can forget. Cold symptoms or a muscle cramp may make your mother wonder if they are signs that her cancer has returned. As she faces her regular checkups, her emotions may swing between hope and anxiety.

These feelings are shared by many cancer patients. They are understandable because cancer can return at any time. However, people can lessen their anxiety about cancer returning by finding ways to cope.

Some people deal with their anxieties about cancer returning by using their skills in challenging activities, finding ways to help others, having fun and laughing often, and taking time for meditation and/or prayer.

Your mother may still have moments of panic when she feels uncertain about the future. These moments may sneak up on her when she least expects them. But they are likely to happen less often if she directs herself toward positive activities and thoughts.

Cancer survivors often lose the belief that their future is unlimited. In exchange, many survivors say they have gained the vision to see each day as a gift to be used wisely and richly.

For a free copy of "Taking Time: Support for People with Cancer and the People Who Care About Them," call the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER.

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