"Empowering Our Cancer Support Community: Conquering Impostor Syndrome"

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them, and sometimes, it feels like those curveballs are aimed directly at our hearts. The conversation this week in our support group was Imposture syndrome. The topic is one most of the survivors could relate to and I could not agree more.

The day I was diagnosed with cancer, my world shifted in ways I could never have imagined. Fear, uncertainty, and a whirlwind of emotions consumed me, but there was one feeling that caught me off guard: impostor syndrome. Yes, even in the face of a life-threatening illness, I found myself questioning the validity of my own struggle.

When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, Stage 0, I had two lumpectomies and was deemed cancer free. One of my childhood friends had a double mastectomy and was battling stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. I went on the cancer support walks with her, but I never felt “worthy” of going to the survivor tent. “Is my cancer serious enough to warrant all this attention and sympathy?” I felt like a fraud, as if my pain and fear were somehow less legitimate because my prognosis wasn't as dire as hers.

Now, 10 years after my 2nd diagnosis, which was brutally harsher then the first, I totally understand the mental struggles of a cancer diagnosis. Whether it's a localized tumor or a more advanced diagnosis, the word itself carries a heavy weight. But then came the thoughts: It’s a strange and isolating feeling to believe you don’t belong in your own narrative of suffering.

This impostor syndrome can be incredibly isolating. It makes you second-guess your every emotion, forcing you to put up a brave facade while your heart is shattering inside. The truth is no one should ever feel like their battle with cancer is less significant. Each journey is unique, and every ounce of fear, every tear, and every sleepless night is valid. The struggle is real, no matter the stage or prognosis.

As I continue my journey and keep supporting others, I cannot encourage enough for survivors to embrace their emotions and accept that their experience is there's alone. Cancer is scary, period. It’s okay to feel vulnerable, to seek support, and to acknowledge the gravity of your situation. If you’re feeling like an impostor in your own battle, Reach out to us and remember this: your pain, your fear, and your journey are all valid. For some coping skills, visit our forum on Each Moment We're Alive's website. You are not alone, and you deserve every bit of compassion and support that comes your way.

With gratitude and hope,

Cindy