Cancer doesn't change just your body. It can affect your mind, your confidence and the way that you see the world and interact with others. If you've had cancer, it can be difficult to stop thinking about your health and consider the idea of letting someone new into your life. You may be afraid of rejection because of the changes surgery, chemotherapy or radiation have put your body through. But you can put your fears aside and move beyond the cancer.
Step 1
Wait to let your date know about your cancer. You may be tempted to tell him immediately in the interest of full disclosure, but you don't want your cancer to garner you a pity date or become the most interesting thing about you, cancer survivor and journalist Jeannette Vagnozzi notes on Health Central website for breast cancer survivors. Instead, go on a few dates to make sure he's interested before you decide how to discuss it in a casual way.
Step 2
Monitor your sex drive. Some medications and treatments that keep the cancer at bay can affect your sex drive and make you feel less interested in members of the opposite sex, says the National Cancer Institute. You may feel broken or as though you don't have much to offer a potential partner. But remember that your body has helped you beat cancer, and with the help of your physician, you can regain your romantic and sex life.
Step 3
Try a variety of things to make yourself feel attractive and desirable. For instance, if you've undergone a mastectomy, you may try wearing a padded bra so you feel more feminine. Have the hair you've grown in since completing chemotherapy done in a cute, contemporary style. When you feel more comfortable and confident, you'll have an easier time meeting new people, not as a cancer survivor, but as yourself.
Step 4
Try new experiences, hobbies and groups to expand your social circle and meet new people who don't immediately know about your battle with cancer. You'll be able to date without the stigma of being known as a "sick person" until you're ready to reveal your history.
If you feel more comfortable with those who understand cancer, join a support group especially for cancer survivors, or use a dating service directed toward survivors, suggests the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Survivorship Program. Websites such as Cancer Match and the Cancer Survivor's Network can help you meet people who, like you, have gotten through cancer and are ready to enjoy the rest of their lives.
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