Rare. Unusual. Anomaly. All of these words are synonymous with being a long-term glioblastoma survivor. All statistical data suggests that I shouldn’t be here.Social cognitive learning theory examples only 10% of people with glioblastoma survive five years. However, here I am, 10 years after being diagnosed with the most aggressive form of brain cancer, and I’m not only surviving – I’m thriving.Social cognitive learning theory examples

After my glioblastoma diagnosis, I was extremely hopeful, yet realistic. I had every medical advantage for a person diagnosed with brain cancer: one of the best neurosurgeons in the country, dr.Social cognitive learning theory examples sujit prabhu, who removed 99% of the tumor in MD anderson’s state-of-the-art brainsuite®; excellent neurological exams; and peak health condition for my age.Social cognitive learning theory examples but I still knew that it was possible, or more than highly likely, that I would have a recurrence.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in english. I also ran two half-marathons and completed my first full marathon in january 2018.Social cognitive learning theory examples and, most importantly, I made wonderful memories with my family and friends. I’ve visited more places in the last 10 years than I had ever imagined.Social cognitive learning theory examples I saw ancient mayan ruins, played in the clear blue waters of the caribbean, explored incredible caverns and visited disney world twice.

However, long-term glioblastoma survival doesn’t come without inconveniences.Social cognitive learning theory examples I suffer daily with anxiety, thinking about the “what ifs.” I’ve come to terms with being on a mild anti-anxiety medication. It’s better than trying to fight through crippling panic attacks.Social cognitive learning theory examples also, it’s become extremely awkward for me to begin new relationships with friends or work colleagues. I never know when I’ll need to explain why I have to travel to MD anderson — or that I have bald spots beneath my long hair from radiation.Social cognitive learning theory examples I sometimes feel uncomfortable sharing my experience. I don’t look sick. So, why would anyone think that I’m a cancer survivor?

I also suffer from an indescribable survivor’s guilt.Social cognitive learning theory examples I think of people I’ve connected with along the way who are no longer here. Every time I hear someone has been diagnosed with any type of cancer, I cringe, thinking someone else might say, “well, you know constance is a cancer survivor,” as if I’ve experienced every aspect of every cancer. (I haven’t!) but these are minor problems for living much longer than expected, and I’m grateful to my care team that I’m even here to experience these inconveniences.Social cognitive learning theory examples

The past 10 years have felt like a lifetime. It also feels like they’ve gone by in the blink of an eye. My memories are like a roller coaster ride of highs and lows, but mostly highs thanks to my care team and support system of family and friends.Social cognitive learning theory examples like everyone, I have bad days. But I try my very best to be optimistic and happy on a daily basis, no matter what the world throws my way. See, that’s where cancer loses.Social cognitive learning theory examples we may not have much control over the hand we’re dealt. But glioblastoma doesn’t have control over my life. I’ve faced every day since my diagnosis head on, and I’ve learned to embrace every waking moment with all of my being.Social cognitive learning theory examples

To quote one of my favorite movies, “the shawshank redemption,” you either have to get busy living, or get busy dying. Every day that we wake up, regardless of our current health, we are both living and dying at the exact same time.Social cognitive learning theory examples we can make the ultimate decision to embrace every moment and live our lives to the fullest, or we can choose to let life get the best of us.Social cognitive learning theory examples I choose to get busy living, and my advice to every survivor is to do the same.