The Physical Struggles of Cancer Survivorship: Reclaiming Strength After Treatment
Cancer treatment is one of the most grueling experiences anyone can endure. Chemotherapy, radiation, surgeries, and medications—each takes its toll, and together, they can leave cancer survivors grappling with a body they no longer recognize. The physical aftermath of treatment is often a silent battle, one that isn’t discussed as often as the emotional or mental struggles. But for many survivors, including myself, rebuilding physical strength and reconnecting with our bodies is one of the hardest and most important steps toward recovery.
From my own experience as a Stage 3 Triple Negative Breast Cancer survivor, I can tell you that the physical toll of treatment is no small thing. During my chemo journey, my body was what my oncologist kindly referred to as "hypersensitive." In less clinical terms, I reacted to just about everything. There was the day I started on Doxorubicin—aptly nicknamed "The Devil’s Juice" in the cancer community. The first attempt to administer the drug resulted in a severe reaction within minutes. I remember the team rushing in to calm my body down, which at that point was basically staging its own protest.
We tried again, this time through an infusion instead of the usual push directly into my chest port. Five minutes in, another reaction—another rush of the medical team, another round of meds to stabilize me. I was given so many steroids that day, I burst blood vessels in my face. And to top it off, that small dose of Doxorubicin was enough to change the wall of my heart.
I am endlessly grateful for the role steroids played in getting me through my treatment, but they came at a cost: nearly 50 pounds of extra weight and a body that felt foreign to me. When treatment ended, I found myself physically drained. Walking down the hallway of my apartment felt like a full-body workout. Before cancer, I wasn’t in peak shape, but I always considered myself strong. I could lift things my girlfriends couldn’t, hit the gym without feeling destroyed, and generally relied on my body to do what I needed it to do. Post-treatment, I had no strength, no stamina, and no idea how to rebuild.
The weight gain, the weakness, and the fatigue—it all felt insurmountable at first. The frustration of not being able to do what used to come easily was overwhelming. My body felt like an alien, and I found myself resenting it at times. But through trial, error, and sheer determination, I started to find my way back. I began with small, joyful movements: walks, dancing around my apartment, and even playing on my Oculus, slashing imaginary balloons with a virtual sword. These activities didn’t just help my body—they helped my mind reconnect with the idea that movement could be fun, not just a grueling chore.
It’s been over a year since I finished treatment, and I’m only now starting to feel the turning point. Recovery, especially physical recovery, is not linear. It’s a process that takes time, patience, and kindness toward yourself.
The Science Behind Post-Treatment Fatigue and Weakness
The physical challenges survivors face aren’t just in their heads. Research shows that cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can cause significant muscle loss, known as cancer cachexia, which affects 50-80% of cancer patients.¹ Add to that the fatigue from treatments, hormonal changes, and weight gain from medications like steroids, and it’s no wonder survivors feel like they’re starting from scratch.
What’s more, studies indicate that survivors who engage in physical activity tailored to their ability levels not only improve their strength but also reduce their risk of recurrence.² Yet, the gap in support for physical recovery after treatment remains staggering. Survivors are often handed a pamphlet or a few vague suggestions about diet and exercise at their survivorship appointment and left to figure out the rest on their own.
Rebuilding Strength: Tips for Physical Recovery
If you’re a survivor feeling overwhelmed by the state of your body post-treatment, know that you’re not alone—and there is hope. Here are some strategies that helped me and that might resonate with you:
Start Small and Celebrate Wins: Begin with short, manageable activities like walking for 5-10 minutes. Celebrate every milestone—no matter how small.
Incorporate Joyful Movement: Find activities that make you happy, whether it’s dancing, yoga, or playing with your kids. Joy can be a powerful motivator.
Fuel Your Body: Focus on anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid the temptation of crash diets—nourishment is key to healing.
Be Patient with Yourself: Progress takes time. Remember, your body has been through so much. Kindness and consistency will take you further than frustration ever could.
Seek Support: Connect with other survivors who understand your journey. A supportive community can provide motivation, accountability, and a sense of belonging.
It’s Time to Reclaim Your Strength
Cancer changes everything, including your relationship with your body. But even if the road feels long, every small step you take is a victory. I created Maevora Wellness Collective and the Rebirth & Radiance: Life After Cancer program because I know firsthand how important it is to have guidance and support in this process.
If you’re ready to rebuild, rediscover, and thrive, I’d love for you to join us. Together, we can navigate the physical challenges of survivorship and help you reconnect with the strength, confidence, and vitality that’s been there all along.
With love and light,
Shana
¹ Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, 2019
² American Cancer Society Guidelines on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer Survivors, 2020
