My Father’s Journey with Stage 4 Cancer: A Story of Strength and Mindset
Over five years ago, my father was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Despite the challenges, he is still thriving, enjoying life, and doing remarkably well. Although the cancer isn’t completely gone, his resilience, positive mindset, and lifestyle have helped him live a fulfilling and joyful life.
Reflecting on his journey, I believe three key factors have contributed to his resilience:
- The Power of Mindset
- A Healthy Diet: You Are What You Eat
- Staying Active and Engaged
1. The Power of Mindset
Since his diagnosis, my father’s outlook on life has completely changed. During my visit to South Korea, I noticed how different his attitude had become. He often repeated, “Everyone dies one day, so don’t waste your time on unnecessary worries. Take it easy, let go of what you can’t control, and believe that everything will be okay.”
This new perspective has made him more easygoing, cheerful, and thankful for life. He now laughs more often, dances, and even sings around the house—something I never saw him do before.
Since my brother moved into my parents’ house, he has been a major source of my father’s emotional strength. My father shared that having his son in the house brought him a deep sense of security and comfort. My brother not only provides companionship but also actively supports my father’s mental and physical health by encouraging a positive mindset and reducing stress.
2. A Healthy Diet: You Are What You Eat
Diet has played a crucial role in my father’s recovery. My brother takes the time to prepare nutritious meals and drinks, such as fish soup, kale juice, fresh fruits, avocados, and other healthy snacks. These dietary changes have supported my father’s immune system and overall well-being.
We’ve learned how harmful stress can be, as my father noticed his health would worsen after stressful situations. To avoid this, he makes an effort to avoid negative news, unhealthy conversations, and interactions with unhappy or negative neighbors.
3. Staying Active and Engaged
My father has embraced an active lifestyle, which keeps his mind and body in balance. He attends an elderly university five days a week, participating in chess classes, physiotherapy massages, painting workshops, and more. On weekends, he enjoys church services and dinners at his favorite restaurants.
These activities keep him socially connected, physically engaged, and emotionally fulfilled.
Lessons from My Father’s Journey
When my father was first diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, we didn’t expect him to live beyond five years. Though he’s not cancer-free, today he inspires our family by showing us how to live with gratitude, less stress, and more joy. His journey has taught us that a fulfilling life is possible through resilience and a positive outlook.
He has also become more expressive, often saying things like, “I miss you,” “Thank you for everything you’ve done for me,” and “You’ve been such a wonderful daughter, you’re the best.” These were words we rarely heard before his diagnosis. His journey has taught us the importance of expressing love and emotions openly—because none of us know when our last day will come, so express your feelings and say what you want to say to your loved one before it’s too late.
So, before it’s too late, I try to tell the people in my life how much I love them, thank them, and remind them how wonderful they are.
My father’s story reminds us all to appreciate life, take care of our health, and cherish the time we have with our loved ones.
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