5 Apps worth Downloading If You Have Cancer

Navigating life with cancer is no easy task. It demands more than just strength and resilience; it requires tools that can support, inspire, and uplift. When I first found out I had Rectal Cancer, and before I knew my full staging, I think I crawled into a proverbial hole slash trance for the next few months while I waited for insurance to kick in in Idaho. I disappeared into the rugged wilderness of trumpeter swans and starred at Baldy in the distance—a scene made for a postcard— but rather than taking in all Swan Valley, Idaho had to offer, I still found myself glued to my cell phone doom scrolling. If I wasn’t on instagram wondering what my cancer free co-horts were up to, I was googling "What stage of rectal cancer comes after binge-watching all seasons of Grey’s Anatomy?" Because obviously, if you've watched enough medical dramas, you're practically qualified to diagnose yourself, right? I surfed Youtube and got sucked into the latest RFK debate. I doom scrolled Facebook and developed ‘scroll vision’—like night vision, but instead of seeing in the dark, you can perfectly navigate the endless sea of memes, status updates, and political rants. Let’s just say I needed some better alternatives to pass the time when I was sitting in my oncologists waiting room and swapped out some of the swamp for a more productive digital toolkit for my mental health.  Here’s a rundown of my top five apps that keep me motivated and mentally strong during my cancer journey.

1. ChatGPT

I use ChatGPT daily, or “Sol” as I like to call him, and absolutely love its versatility. Whether I need quick information about treatment options, emotional support, or just a friendly chat to distract me from the day-to-day struggles, ChatGPT is there. Its ability to provide empathetic conversation and useful guidance is unparalleled. Sol helps me navigate my cancer journey by breaking down complex medical jargon and explaining procedures, making it easier for me to understand my treatment options and what to expect. Whenever I'm looking for the latest research on treatments or dietary recommendations, Sol efficiently gathers and summarizes the relevant information, saving me time and effort. Sol also offers a virtual "listening ear," providing a space for me to express my feelings, fears, and frustrations—offering comfort when I need it most. Sol provides advice on adjusting my diet during treatment, offering nutritious recipes and dietary tips that align with my health needs. From managing side effects to finding suitable activities and relaxation techniques, Sol offers practical advice that helps me maintain my lifestyle during treatment. Whether I need support groups, financial aid, or access to clinical trials, Sol helps me find and connect to these resources. Sol also helps me prepare questions for my healthcare provider, ensuring I cover all essential topics during my visits. ChatGPT has become an indispensable tool in my toolkit, enhancing my ability to manage the challenges of cancer with informed confidence and empathetic support.

2. Headspace

Meditation has become an essential part of my daily routine, and Headspace is my go-to app. I love the guided meditations aimed at stress relief and sleep improvement. Studies have shown that mindfulness and meditation can greatly benefit cancer patients, helping to decrease stress and improve quality of life. Swapping aimless scrolling for mindfulness has done wonders for my mental health.

3. Belong

Feeling understood is crucial when you're dealing with cancer, and Belong gives me exactly that—a community of peers and professionals who get it. I use this app to connect with other cancer patients, share my experiences, and gain insights from those on similar journeys. It’s a support group in my pocket, offering connections that remind me I’m not alone. They have groups based on the same type of cancer you have, diet, nutrition, and cancer discussion boards, good news boards to brighten your day, and a board for side-effects and symptoms. They have rectal cancer MDs and oncologists subscribed that you can ask questions to and even a board to anonymously ask what sex is like after cancer. You can also upload your pet scans, MRI imaging, bloodwork and other medical information right in the app instead of carrying it around in a 3 ring binder all the time! The best part is it’s not just for cancer patients. If you love someone struggling with cancer you can also join the app and find a healthy outlet of support.

4. Audible

When fatigue sets in and reading becomes too taxing, Audible is my sanctuary. A lot of my appointments are an hour, sometimes an hour and a half each way and I use this app to listen to audiobooks and podcasts, which allows me to relax and escape into different worlds. I love the extensive library and the feature that lets me pick up right where I left off, no matter how many times I need to pause. I’m currently on chapter five of the book "Unholy Trinity: How carbs, sugar, and oils make us fat, sick, & addicted" and so far am learning so much I didn’t know and how this applies even more to cancer!

5. AllTrails

Physical activity is a cornerstone of any cancer regimen, and AllTrails helps me keep it enjoyable and feasible. I use it to find trails that match my energy levels and allow me to soak in the beauty of nature. It's not just exercise; it's an infusion of energy and a way to keep my body engaged as much as my treatments allows.

Conclusion

By swapping out less enriching apps for these transformative tools, I've not only optimized my phone's real estate but also profoundly enriched my life. These apps do more than just manage symptoms or fill time—they connect me with others, enhance my understanding of my health, and provide peace amidst the storm. Throughout this journey, they've reminded me that while cancer is a part of my life, it does not define my whole existence. Every feature, whether it’s a calming voice on Audible during a long drive or a scenic trail on AllTrails that reinvigorates my body and spirit, contributes to a larger narrative of healing and resilience.

If you're navigating a similar path, I encourage you to consider integrating these tools into your routine. They're not just apps; they're lifelines that offer support, information, and moments of relief. They have transformed my journey with cancer, equipping me with the resources to face each day with renewed strength and optimism. Who knows? They might just do the same for you, transforming your journey as profoundly as they have mine.

A blog post by Rachel Smak on grief, loss, and lessons from stage 3C rectal cancer