For many cancer survivors, the end of active treatment brings a complicated mix of emotions. Relief and gratitude often coexist with anxiety, uncertainty, and even a sense of loss. After months or even years of frequent appointments and scans, it’s not uncommon to feel suddenly “cut loose” once treatment ends.
In some ways, the consistency of regular visits can provide reassurance and peace of mind. When that structure disappears, survivors may find themselves wondering what comes next and whether lingering symptoms or emotional challenges are normal.
“The survivorship journey is full of ups and downs,” says Jackie Edwards, a registered nurse and the program coordinator for survivorship and sexual health at Atrium Health Levine Cancer. “Many people expect that they’ll start feeling better once their cancer is gone, but that’s not always the case.”
That’s where the Levine Cancer Survivorship Clinic comes in. Designed specifically to support individuals after cancer treatment, the clinic offers personalized, whole-person care to help survivors navigate recovery, rebuild their confidence, and feel informed and supported.
Whether someone is experiencing physical side effects like neuropathy, emotional concerns like anxiety or depression, or questions about long-term health, the Survivorship Clinic team is uniquely positioned to help address their needs.
“At the Survivorship Clinic, we understand how to take care of you, and we’ve been trained using guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and other accrediting bodies for survivorship care,” says Edwards. “We focus on you as a whole person and help you become the healthiest version of yourself after cancer treatment. We’re a supportive team who can help you get back on your feet after your cancer treatment is complete.”
What happens during a cancer survivorship appointment?
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) defines cancer survivorship as beginning the day a person is diagnosed. While Levine Cancer shares this definition, individuals typically begin appointments at the Survivorship Clinic after completing active treatment.
Each survivorship visit is designed to feel supportive and collaborative. Appointments include a comprehensive physical exam (similar to an annual physical with a primary care provider). Physicians also review bloodwork and imaging as needed, taking time to explain results and answer questions.
No two survivorship visits look exactly the same because no two recovery journeys are alike. During appointments, survivors and providers may discuss a wide range of topics, including:
- Late and long-term effects of cancer treatment
- Follow-up testing and screenings, such as colonoscopies, mammograms and skin checks
- Symptoms to watch for
- Mental health
- Sexual health
- Fertility
- Sleep
- Returning to work
- Vaccines
- Family history
- Lifestyle changes to reduce the chances of recurrence
- Weight management
After each visit, survivors receive personalized recommendations that serve as a roadmap for ongoing health and recovery. The team shares this plan with the survivor’s primary care physician to ensure coordinated, continuous care.
Survivorship visits typically take place once a year. However, survivors are encouraged to reach out to the clinic team at any time with questions, concerns or new symptoms. At each appointment, the team will ensure each survivor is up to date on the latest survivorship care recommendations.
“Even if you’re not seen as often as you were during treatment, the Survivorship Clinic team and your oncology team are still here for you,” says Edwards. “You can always reach out to us if you have new concerns.”
Additional supportive resources for cancer survivors
In addition to the Survivorship Clinic, the Levine Cancer Department of Supportive Oncology offers a wide range of services to support physical healing, emotional well-being, social connection and overall quality of life. Survivors are encouraged to explore the resources that best match their needs, energy levels and interests, including:
- Acupuncture
- Cancer rehabilitation
- Deep relaxation and mindfulness classes
- Exercise programs
- Healing touch
- Massage therapy
- Music therapy
- Nutrition services
- One-on-one counseling
- Spiritual care
- Support groups
- Tai chi
- Therapeutic art
- Writing community
- Yoga
“We want people to feel like they have a resource and someone looking out for them,” says Edwards. “Our oncology team does a phenomenal job taking care of patients and we’re ready to keep the ball rolling for them once cancer treatment ends.”
Life after cancer looks different for everyone and survivorship support is available at every stage of recovery. Learn more about cancer support and survivorship programs at Levine Cancer.
