Have you been affected by cancer?
Chances are, you know someone who has, perhaps a friend, a colleague, a loved one, or maybe it’s been part of your own story. Like many, I had known people who faced cancer some survived, others heartbreakingly did not. But nothing truly prepares you for when the diagnosis is your own.
In 2023, I was told the words no one wants to hear: “You have cancer.”
In the space of a few moments, my entire world shifted. I felt as though I was falling mentally, emotionally, spiritually. My thoughts raced; this can’t be happening. Am I going to die? What do I tell my children? Will I get through this? I felt overwhelmed, vulnerable, and deeply alone.
The hardest moment came next, telling my children. No one can prepare you for the heartbreak of watching your loved ones receive news that shakes their world. I could see their pain and fear. And though I was frightened too, I decided in that moment I was going to face this head-on. I wasn’t going to let cancer steal my hope.
The Battle: Body and Mind
Treatment was gruelling. The side effects, pain, exhaustion, discomfort, pushed me to my limits. Some days, simply getting out of bed felt impossible. But as harsh as it was, I reminded myself this is saving my life.
I couldn’t control what was happening to my body, but I could try to care for my mind.
As an author, I’ve always found healing in words. But during this time, I discovered journaling on a whole new level, not for storytelling, but for survival.
Writing gave me space to express the emotions I didn’t always want to speak out loud. It allowed me to process fear, grief, anger, even hope. I’ve always tried to stay positive, but even the most optimistic minds can get lost in a storm of “what ifs.” Journaling became my anchor a private, judgment-free space to release all that was weighing me down.
Writing as a Tool for Healing
Whether or not you consider yourself a “writer,” journaling can be a lifeline during difficult times. It helps untangle overwhelming emotions, release inner tension, and remind you that your feelings are valid.
Talking helps too, please, if you are struggling, speak to someone you trust or reach out to a professional. But I also know how hard it can be to find the right words when you’re face-to-face with someone. That’s why writing can be so powerful it gives you space to be completely honest, without needing to explain or justify how you feel.
Even though I’m quite an open person, there were days I didn’t want to talk. I just wanted peace and space and writing gave me that.
The Heart of Write to Release®
Write to Release was originally born from another life-altering grief the loss of my baby daughter, Catriona. Although her passing wasn’t cancer related, the emotional aftermath shaped the rest of my life. It also taught me the power of writing as a tool for survival.
I created Write to Release® as a space for healing for those navigating loss, trauma, illness, or simply the emotional weight of being human. Family and friends may support us with love, but unless someone has walked the same path, they can’t truly understand how it feels. That’s why it’s so important to have your own safe outlet.
A Free Resource to Support You
If you are facing cancer or supporting someone who is, I’ve created a free mini eBook that you can download. Inside are gentle writing exercises designed to help you process and release what’s on your mind and heart.
If you feel called to explore this further, I also offer a more in-depth expressive writing workbook and calming audio meditations designed specifically for those affected by cancer.
No matter where you are on your journey, please know: You are not alone.
And there is always a way to release, express, and begin to heal.
With love and understanding,
Jenny x
Creator of Write to Release®