In the Aftermath of Battle: The Lived Experiences of Cancer Survivors

Abstract

This study was conducted to look into the lived experiences of the adolescent cancer survivors in the Cancer Warriors Foundation Inc. –Batangas Chapter. The co-researchers of the study were nine (9) adolescent cancer survivors. Using the guide questions, the researcher conducted her focus group discussion using audio-record type. The themes that emerged from the co-researchers in the study were the varied inherited and acquired cancers, different challenges encountered, different strategies for coping like extending emotional support in different ways, attending various physical activities and varied social and spiritual ways for better health, and different forms of support. Similarly, the summarized findings from the responses in the interviews were discussed in relation to theories and other research findings from the gathered literature. The significance of acknowledging these findings is that the co-researchers would introspect, understand and reflect deeper how they see themselves in their present situation of being cancer survivors. Lastly, a proposed psychological program named “CanServe” was recommended to the Cancer Warriors Foundation, Inc. Batangas Chapter that aims to help the adolescent cancer survivors in facing the challenges of their present situation.