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I Had Cancer Guidelines

We're all here for similar reasons - we've been touched by cancer in some way. It’s up to all of us to show each other that no one is alone. Your IHadCancer profile is your own place to call home during this crazy thing called cancer, we just ask that you keep these simple guidelines in mind when participating.

1. Always Be Nice. This is a place for connections and conversations – we encourage you all to talk openly but please remain considerate in all of your engagement. Don’t post obscene, hateful or objectionable content. Abuse and disrespect will not be tolerated in the IHC community and is subject to deletion and user removal at our discretion.

2. Be a Good Friend. The IHC community is a family. Please remember to be a good friend to the connections you make on IHC. Ask questions that you wish someone would ask you; if you can’t find the right words to say, send a hug, it can speak louder than words. A simple gesture goes a long way.

3. Don't Spam. This includes sending unsolicited messages of any nature, posting links to unrelated content, promoting a survey, fundraiser or product where it shouldn’t be promoted. If you aren’t sure if something is appropriate to post, e-mail us and we’ll let you know.

4. Think Before You Post. Everything you post on IHadCancer is secure, but it is up to you to monitor how much or how little information you are sharing about yourself and your experience. Please don’t share personal or identifiable information like your mailing address or your full name and don’t share other member’s information.

5. If You See Something, Say Something. We work hard to make sure these guidelines are followed closely but if you see something that doesn’t’ feel right to you, please let us know. We review every report we receive and will take anything you say to heart. We promise.

6. Be Open. Welcome newcomers and help guide them through this journey based on your own experience. Whether you are a survivor, fighter, caregiver or supporter, you have valuable information that can very well help someone else who is just beginning the cancer journey. Be open to sharing experiences and give someone else the gift of your time.

Thanks for being a part of our community. It’s up to all of us to ensure that IHadCancer remains a place for us all to call home when dealing with the ups and downs of a cancer diagnosis.

Theresa66's picture
Theresa66 Connect

Survivor: Cervical Cancer

I was in shock for days. I couldn't believe it. My worst fear came true. I cried, I was angry. But thanks to my man and my family I was never alone. The life I knew was suddenly gone and now I was fighting for my life, never knowing if I would make it. My biggest fear was dying, but not for me, I didn't want to leave my family. I was worried about my soul mate and how would he handle it, I thought of my only niece and how I wouldn't be around to see her grow and what words would I leave with her, before I left? all of those crazy thoughts consumed me daily. Next month is my 2 year anniversary of being cancer free. and I want to celebrate and scream how I made it, but I'm afraid too. I don't want to tempt cancer into coming back. It's a scary thought. My doctor has told me that after 2 years, it is very unlikely the cancer will return. Cancer is a horrible disease. I watched my mom die from lung cancer in 2004 and now my friend has cancer. I think to myself, I made it, while others have died. and that makes me feel bad. My faith in God keeps me going and I try to understand that it wasn't my time, I still get pissed with all the others dying. One of my old friends from school died last July, she was like me only 48 and had a daughter. I wanted her to live too! I still don't understand why this all happened. I try to use what I have learned to help others. I am not afraid to tell my story. I've also learned that every one who has cancer, has a different story. What I have learned is every day is truly a blessing, I no longer sweat the small stuff. It doesn't matter. When I was sick, not once did I worry about the every day stuff. It was my family that were always on my mind. I know acknowledge everyone's birthday and anniversary's etc. I didn't bother to do that before. What cancer taught me is that I am strong and I have people who love me. I am grateful for that lesson. I feel I am a better person and appreciate life much more. I would tell others who are recently diagnosed, to keep your loved ones near you, but it is also okay to be alone at times and cry. You have every right to feel how you are feeling. No one knows what you are going through, but the people who love you want to help, let them. They will give you strength and courage. This too shall pass.

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