More than 11 million Americans alive today have faced a diagnosis of cancer. Some of them have just been diagnosed or are going through treatment, while others no longer have active symptoms of cancer or are thought to be cured.

No 2 people with cancer are alike -- just as no 2 friends or family members are alike.Each person has his or her own way of coping with cancer. Here we will review how some people facing cancer have dealt with their feelings and their individual situations. This information comes from many people who have shared their thoughts and feelings about coping with cancer. They've shared because they believe it's helpful to hear from others who have been "in their shoes."

The American Cancer Society can give you information about different types of cancer and cancer-related topics. At the end of this document, we have listed other resources that cover the topics in depth. We also offer many patient service programs in communities throughout the country. To get the information and resources you need, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345, or visit our Web site at www.cancer.org.