Survivorship Care

Keep follow up oncology appointments, diagnostic lab work, imaging tests and surveillance exams

Even after treatment ends, you will have visits with your oncology care team. This includes follow up appointments, surveillance exams, diagnostic and imaging studies. These are important for you to have done on time as they will help to:

• Track for potential late effects of treatment
• Monitor for any signs of recurrence
• Support your recovery

It can be tempting to want to delay or push off these appointments, but staying on schedule without delay is one of the best things you can do for your health.

Share any new or unusual symptoms with your oncology care team

• Your oncology care team will guide you on what signs or symptoms to watch for
• If you notice a change in how you normally look or feel, let us know

Even if the changes are small, let us know, we are here to help.

Continue your routine cancer screenings

Even after surviving one type of cancer, staying on time with all recommended routine cancer screenings helps detect cancer early, when treatment may be easier.

Learn more about cancer screenings

Managing long-term and late side effects

Each person may experience different side effects from treatment, some that may continue after treatment is completed. Reach out to your oncology care team if you notice new symptoms or changes. We can assess what is normal and what may need further evaluation.

It is natural to feel anxiety before a scan, exam or lab test

Many people feel nervous or scared before going in to get labs, exams and follow up appointments. These feelings are normal. Avoid delaying care out of fear. It is important for your health to keep these appointments on time so your health can be properly monitored and if there is anything abnormal it is detected at the earliest time.

Caring for your port

If you had a port placed, it may need to stay in for some time after your cancer treatment has completed. Your infusion team and medical oncologist will advise you on how long it should remain.
Continue to care for your port by:

• Keep the area clean and dry
• Follow any instructions from your infusion team

Lymphedema Awareness

Some cancer treatments increase your risk of developing lymphedema. If you notice swelling, tightness or heaviness- especially in your arms, legs or face, Riverside has certified lymphedema therapists you can help you prevent or manage this condition.

Learn more about lymphedema therapy

Nutrition after cancer treatment

Your nutrition needs change after cancer treatment. Our registered dietitian nutritionists can help you.

Learn more about Nutrition after Cancer Treatment

Quit smoking tobacco and vaping

Avoiding all tobacco and vaping products is essential for cancer survivors. Quitting will:

• Improve your immune system
• Decrease your chance of cancer recurrence
• Decrease your chance of developing another type of cancer

There are resources to help you quit, such as Virginia’s “quitline” 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

Read our blog “Help make your cancer treatments more effective: Quit smoking”

Limit Alcohol

Limit or avoid alcohol. Men should have no more than two drinks a day and women should have no more than one drink a day. Alcohol consumption is a risk factor for cancer.

Exercise after Cancer Treatment

Moving is good for your health, whether it is walking, yoga or light strength training. Exercise can boost your energy, improve mood and support your recovery after treatment.

Learn about Riverside’s Wellness and Fitness Center

Oncology Rehabilitation

Oncology rehabilitation improves quality of life, improving mobility and strength. Riverside offers pelvic floor physical therapy, lymphedema therapy, speech and occupational therapy.

Learn about our Oncology Rehabilitation services

Continue primary care

Schedule and keep your annual check-ups and screenings unrelated to cancer, such as cholesterol levels, blood pressure and A1C which monitor heart health and screen for conditions like diabetes. Having a primary care provider plays a key role in your life long health.

Find a primary care provider

Managing stress and anxiety

It is normal to feel a number of emotions after cancer treatment is completed.

• Set aside some time to rest and relax your mind
• Deep breathing, mindfulness and exercise can help

Connect with other cancer survivors who understand

Our support groups offer space to connect and share wisdom with other cancer survivors. You can even support others who are undergoing or beginning their cancer journey.

Learn about our cancer support groups

Counseling services in the community

Ask your cancer care team for resources that are available near you.

Rediscover what brings you happiness

Reconnecting with what makes life meaningful is part of the healing process that continues after cancer treatment is complete. This could be:

• Spending time with loved ones
• Enjoy the companionship of a pet
• Travel
• Creative outlets such as journaling or painting
• Finding a new hobby
• Connecting spiritually

Parenting after cancer

Enjoying spending time with your children matters more than “bouncing back” to what felt normal before. Be open with communication and give yourself grace to not put added pressure on yourself.

Returning to work after cancer treatment

Some may be returning to work after treatment, while others may have continued working throughout treatment. If you are first returning you may want to ease in gradually or request accommodations. Cancer and Careers is a helpful online resource around rights and options.

Navigating Finances

Riverside can help you navigate the financial cost of your cancer treatment.
We are pleased to offer financial assistance to those who qualify. You may also call 757-989-8830, option #3 to speak with a team member for assistance.