The author today. Photo Courtesy Of Darcey Gohring
Introduction
In March 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, Darcey Gohring faced a life-altering diagnosis: breast cancer. Now, five years later, she reflects on her journey of battling cancer during a global health crisis and how society’s response to COVID-19 left a lasting impact on her mental health. This is her story of resilience, recovery, and the emotional toll of living through two life-changing events.
The Dual Battle: Cancer and COVID-19
At 46, Darcey discovered a lump in her breast just as the COVID-19 pandemic began. The timing couldn’t have been worse. Hospitals were overwhelmed, and the fear of contracting the virus added another layer of stress to her cancer treatment.
Five years later, Darcey is cancer-free—a milestone that significantly reduces the risk of recurrence. While her friends celebrated this victory, Darcey couldn’t help but reflect on the other “C” that shaped her life: COVID-19.
The Emotional Toll of COVID-19
During her treatment, Darcey experienced the harsh realities of the pandemic firsthand. Hospitals were eerily empty, healthcare workers wore full PPE, and patients were isolated. The fear of contracting COVID-19 while immunocompromised was overwhelming.
She recalls:
- Sobbing outside the hospital after saying goodbye to her husband before surgery.
- The terror in the eyes of healthcare workers.
- The constant fear of catching the virus and not surviving it.
These memories stayed with her, even as the world moved on.
Society’s Rush to Move On
By 2021, as vaccines rolled out, many people were eager to put the pandemic behind them. Darcey noticed a growing sentiment that COVID-19 was “overblown” or “a bunch of bullshit.” At a barbecue, she overheard friends complaining about disrupted sports schedules and boring social lives.
For Darcey, this was jarring. How could people forget the trauma so quickly? The pandemic wasn’t just an inconvenience—it was a life-altering event that claimed millions of lives and left lasting scars on survivors like her.
The Rise of Anxiety and Depression
The World Health Organization reported a 25% increase in anxiety and depression cases worldwide after the pandemic. Darcey was among those affected. The trauma of COVID-19 and cancer became intertwined in her mind, leading to:
- Anxiety attacks in crowded places.
- Constant worry about minor health symptoms.
- An all-consuming fear that COVID-19 could trigger a cancer recurrence.
Despite her struggles, Darcey often replied, “Good,” when asked how she was doing. She pushed herself to attend social events, travel, and resume “normal” life, hoping it would help her heal.
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
Darcey’s journey highlights the importance of acknowledging trauma and giving ourselves time to heal. While society rushed to move on, she realized that recovery isn’t linear.
Key Takeaways:
- Acknowledge the Trauma: It’s okay to admit that the pandemic and other life-altering events have left a mark.
- Seek Support: Talking to loved ones or a mental health professional can help process emotions.
- Be Kind to Yourself: Healing takes time, and it’s important to prioritize your well-being.
#CancerSurvivor #COVID19Impact #MentalHealthMatters #ResilienceJourney #HealingAfterTrauma
