An Insider View of the Cancer Radiation Experience Through the Eyes of a Cancer Patient

Abstract

While oncology providers see and treat thousands of cancer patients every year, few have had cancer themselves, or know what’s it like to be in the shoes of a cancer patient days in and days out. This article written by a cancer survivor, writer, and experience design consultant lifts the lid on the cancer patient experience, for the benefit of noncancer patients. Through visual imageries, the author helps oncology providers and caregivers visualize and realize the vulnerability of the cancer experience and discover the treatment experience through new eyes. The article reveals emotional, mental, and somatic stressors, which add stress and/or trauma to the treatment experience and have been largely overlooked by health-care providers.