Where Do I Start? How to Share Your Bladder Cancer Story

"I want to share my story but don't know how to start."

If this sounds like you, you're not alone. I've heard people say this quite often in the bladder cancer community. Getting started can be the hardest part. Especially if this is the first time you've ever shared your bladder cancer story.

Sharing your bladder cancer story can be scary at first

It can be scary to think about sharing all of a sudden. You might wonder how others will respond, or if they will respond at all. Or worried that nobody wants to hear what you have to say.

I can assure you that isn't true. I read every story that gets submitted to BladderCancer.net. Each and every story has a tremendous impact, and helps raise awareness for the challenges of living with and caring for bladder cancer. You never know who will read your story, and how they might be able to relate.

After finally taking the leap, many people will say that they can't believe they waited so long to share their story. Some will even say that sharing their bladder cancer story is one of the best things they've ever done.

Ready to share?

I've gathered the components that make up many bladder cancer stories and outlined some pointers to walk you through sharing your story. While there isn't a single format or structure for a story, I hope these help you with sharing yours, whenever you are ready of course. Let's get started!

First, introduce yourself

Start with a short introduction about yourself. Remember your audience does not know who you are, so include relevant aspects about your background or interests. How long have you been living with bladder cancer symptoms? When did you know that something was wrong? If you've been diagnosed, share about that experience, and how you were feeling about it.

Share about your treatment path

Many people will share about what treatments they have done. They talk about their visits to the doctors, and what they are learning about bladder cancer. Have you undergone any procedures? How has that been going? What has the recovery process been like for you?

Conclude with how you are doing today

The end portion of the story usually includes a reflection or an update on how they are doing. Have you made any progress since the beginning of your journey, or have things gotten worse? What mental hurdles are you facing? Have you found support online or in-person? What are your hopes or plans for managing your life during or after cancer?

Don't forget to make it personal

No two stories are the same. Be sure to incorporate some personal touches to make your story unique to you. Whether it's your raw emotions, sense of humor, or writing your story like a poem or song, your story can be as unique as you are.

Share my bladder cancer story on BladderCancer.net

I look forward to reading your story!
-Sarah (BladderCancer.net Team Member)