Whether it has been six months, ten years, twenty years or more, you will always be a breast cancer survivor.

In addition to the memory of a difficult time, you may be living with long term effects such as fatigue, depression, fear of recurrence, or physical disfigurement. Some effects may not show up until years after the end of treatment. There are steps to take to help reduce the impact of long term effects.

Unlike some other cancers, there is no guarantee that your breast cancer will not return even after 15 years or more. There is also no guarantee that that another cancer will not appear or that something else will not happen. You can help prevent another cancer occurrence, maximize your body's fighting ability, and help feel in control on a daily basis.

Our discussion is divided into eight categories which we cover in alphabetical order: Day To Day Living, Emotional Well Being, Finances, Government Benefits, Insurance, Medical Care, Planning Ahead, and Work Issues. We recommend that you skim the content to get an overview, then return to each subject as it works for you. Each subject starts with a summary. Links take you to the depth you want at any given moment, down to form letters and what to say or not say to an insurance company.

NOTE:

• You can personalize the steps to your medical, insurance, economic, work, and social situation by getting a Survivorship A to Z Personalized Survival Guide. If you do not feel able to take these steps yourself at the moment, ask a trusted friend or family member to help.
• If your cancer recurs, see: Recurrence.
• If you believe you are within six months of the end of your life, see : End of Life.

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