Caring for the whole Veteran beyond treatment: VA’s role in cancer survivorship

In June, VA honors National Cancer Survivor Month by spotlighting the brave journey of Veteran cancer survivors and the many ways they can find support at VA beyond their cancer treatment.

Cancer survivorship is more than overcoming physical challenges. It is a path of resilience, hope and healing that extends well beyond treatment. For Veterans like Seth King, who served in the Air Force for seven years, this journey has been filled with both trials and triumphs. Throughout it all, his dedicated VA cancer care team has been a dependable companion, providing unwavering support at every step of the way.

King, who faced a diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, understands firsthand the challenging road for Veterans dealing with cancer-not just once, but twice. King was first diagnosed in 2010 when his physician found a lump on his neck after a routine visit at the Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, New York.

After six rounds of chemotherapy, followed by several rounds of radiation treatment, he was found to have no evidence of cancer. Then, in 2014, King felt a similar lump near his collarbone. His physician suggested a new treatment approach and VA flew him to Seattle VA Medical Center, where he underwent a stem cell transplant over the course of three months. The treatment was effective, but VA's care didn't stop there. King has been in remission ever since and his primary care team continues to monitor his overall health.

VA cancer survivorship care adapts to meet Veteran's need

Throughout King's journey, his doubts, fears and concerns were alleviated by his VA cancer care team. "From the beginning, the nurses and doctors were excellent, and I can't praise them enough for quality of care," he said. "If I ever had a question or worry, I could call, the on-call person would pass my concerns on, and the doctor would respond."

Standing shoulder to shoulder with Veterans beyond cancer treatment through cancer survivorship care

Even beyond cancer treatment and recovery, King found comfort in VA's comprehensive support. More recently, he had an appointment with his primary care provider (PCP) where he shared concerns about his housing situation and that his mental health was not in a good place. "My VA PCP took it upon herself to reach out to VA's social support network and helped me out based on what I needed," King said. He's since secured permanent housing, due in part to VA's support.

VA support programs for cancer survivorship

At VA, survivorship is not just a phase-it is an ongoing commitment to empowering Veterans to thrive beyond their diagnosis. Through a range of specialized resources and support services, VA provides Veterans with the tools they need to navigate every stage of their journey:

• Whole Health Program : A personalized approach to wellness that focuses on the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of Veterans.
• Physical Therapy: Tailored programs to enhance mobility, manage pain and improve overall quality of life.
• Counseling and Support Groups: A safe and nurturing space for Veterans to connect with peers through Peer Support groups, or to share experiences and seek guidance from mental health professionals in a dedicated safe space.
• Art and Music Therapy< /a>: Creative outlets that encourage healing, reduce stress and foster self-expression.
• Acupuncture and Alternative Therapies : Holistic treatments that complement traditional methods and healing.

Whether you are undergoing screening, actively receiving treatment or navigating the uncertainties of post-treatment recovery, VA is here for you. As King put it, "Don't hesitate, VA can save your life in more ways than one: physical, mental, whatever it may be, if you reach out, they will help you and they won't turn you away."

Learn more

VA's National Oncology Program walks shoulder to shoulder with Veterans through every step of their cancer journey.

To learn more about cancer survivorship at VA, please visit cancer.va.gov, or reach out to your VA provider at MyHealtheVet.

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