In my book, What Helped Get Me Through: Cancer Survivors Share Wisdom and Hope, I asked people what it meant to them to be a survivor. Usually, being a survivor means that you have lived through something very challenging. There is no doubt that cancer fits the bill.

Most survivors have asked themselves the question, “Could I have prevented this cancer?” Some may mull this question over and over in their minds. But how much should you dwell on the past, and is it worth your time and energy now to have regrets?

In her book Before and After Cancer Treatment: Heal Faster, Better, Stronger, Dr. Julie Silver addresses the common questions that people have about eating well.

In my book What Helped Get Me Through, I asked cancer survivors what would have helped them during their cancer journey but was too difficult to ask for.

People really want to be supportive, but often they need to be told what will really help. It’s not always easy to figure out how best to support you and your loved ones.

Dr. Julie Silver, Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, illuminates the positive impact animals can have in supporting, helping, and healing patients with cancer.

This column is written for survivors and their loved ones who are seeking information and inspiration, an infusion of hope.