Travel has always been an important part of my life—whether I was pushing my physical boundaries or immersing myself in nature, it was how I connected with the world and felt truly alive. But now, as I face stage IV cancer, travel has taken on a new and profound meaning. It’s no longer just about the scenery—it’s about celebrating life, creating lasting memories with loved ones, checking off bucket-list dreams, and truly living in the moment.
These days, when I book a ticket, pack my bag, and set off on a journey, the act itself feels different. It’s more than just anticipation—it’s a shift in how I see my life and the choices I can still make. Whether it’s choosing where to go or deciding how long to stay, these moments of freedom allow me to take back control over my life, however briefly.
After my diagnosis, I watched control slip through my fingers, like trying to hold onto water. Suddenly, my days were defined by doctor’s appointments, treatments, uncertainty, and I struggled to recognize my own reflection in the mirror. Traveling is probably the most important way I can reclaim a sense of agency and autonomy. I am making a choice based on what I want, rather than letting illness dictate my actions. It is about having the freedom to choose what I do, and how I do it. It’s about taking back control.
But there’s another reason I travel, and it’s just as important as reclaiming my sense of control. I want to live by example. When faced with a terminal illness, it’s easy to let the weight of the diagnosis pull you down. It’s so much easier to retreat to the couch, focus on the illness, and live as though life is already over. And while that choice is understandable, it’s not the only choice. I’ve chosen another way—one where I refuse to let my illness dictate how I live. Continuing to travel and experience the world allows me to show others in my situation that there are paths beyond giving up. Through writing about my journeys, even as I face mortality, I hope to leave a different impression. I want to prove that even when your time feels limited, you can still seek adventure, joy, and connection. It would have been easy to stop pushing myself, to retreat to the couch and let my illness dictate the remainder of my days. But every time I choose to board that plane, or set off on another adventure, I’m choosing to live fully. And I want others to feel that same freedom—to know that they don’t have to give up.
Defying cancer is about more than just surviving—it’s about living boldly in the face of it. When I trek a mountain or kayak through unfamiliar waters, I’m not just traveling; I’m drawing a line in the sand and refusing to let my illness define my boundaries. Each step, each stroke, is an act of rebellion—a reminder that my story is still mine to write. And I want others to see that their story is still theirs to write, too. I want them to know that they can choose to keep going, to step outside the confines of their illness, and to seek out experiences that make them feel alive. Giving up is an easy option, but I’ve chosen the harder path—the one where I keep moving forward, keep exploring, and keep creating new memories.
While traveling is good for me personally, it is also a way of connecting with others. I want to spend meaningful time with my family and friends, creating memories that they can hold onto long after I’m gone. Traveling with those I love has created moments that I know will last beyond my time. I’ll never forget standing on Antelope Island with one of my daughters, watching the bison graze in the golden light of late afternoon, their dark shapes moving slowly against the endless Utah sky. Or that winter morning in Yellowstone with another daughter, watching Old Faithful erupt, the air so cold and crisp it felt like each breath was wrapped in steam and ice.
Travel is a way for me to shape how I’ll be remembered through the stories I can tell and the books that I write. I hope that when people think of me, it’s not the image of a man in a hospital bed, weakened by illness. Instead, I want them to picture me kayaking along the Antarctic Peninsula, the icy wind in my face and the sea spray catching in the air as I dodge icebergs with a grin—alive in every way that mattered. These are the stories I want to leave behind—stories of adventure, of living by my own rules, even as my illness tried to dictate otherwise. I don’t want to be remembered as just an ailing man, frail and diminished. I’ve been open about my illness, which means exposing my vulnerabilities. Some may see that as weakness, but I know it takes strength to speak openly about what hurts. It takes a strong man to admit his fragility. By writing about my travels, even as I face mortality, I hope to leave a different impression—one of strength, resilience, and living life on my terms.
Facing terminal cancer has led me to search for deeper meaning and spiritual connection. Travel helps me find that, connecting with nature in a way that brings me a sense of awe and purpose. I find great solace in Mother Nature and witnessing how she takes care of her planet, despite everything we as humans are doing to it.
There’s something humbling about standing on the edge of a mountain, the vast expanse of plains stretching out before me, with distant peaks rising like guardians on the horizon. I remember the wind biting at my skin as I stood on the summit, watching the sun slowly slip behind those far-off ranges. The world felt so vast and infinite, and in that moment, I felt both small and completely alive. There was a quiet sense of awe, knowing that nature goes on—mountains rise, rivers carve valleys—regardless of everything happening in my life. It gave me peace, a reminder that, just like the mountains, I am part of something bigger and enduring. Mother Nature, in all her power and resilience, gives me hope.
My illness reminds me that life is fragile and that the present moment is what matters most. Travel is my way of living fully and appreciating life while I still have the opportunity. There’s something powerful about being in a new place, soaking in new experiences, and focusing on the beauty of the here and now. On that beach, with the waves crashing rhythmically on the shore, time seemed to stand still. The scent of saltwater filled the air, the warmth of the sun sank deep into my skin, and the horizon stretched out infinitely before me. In that moment, there was no illness—just the simple, quiet joy of being alive.
As I face my own mortality, I might feel a desire to connect with the world and appreciate the diversity of human experiences. Travel offers a way for me to encounter different cultures, connect with people, and feel a part of something greater, which is deeply comforting.
For me, traveling with terminal cancer isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about embracing life in the time I have left, savoring each step, each sunset, each laugh, each hug. It’s about writing my own ending, one filled with beauty, adventure, and love. But more than that, it’s about showing others that they can do the same. Even when facing the hardest of circumstances, we still have choices. And I choose to live.
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Overcoming Fear and Anxiety About Travel
By planning and taking a trip, I make conscious choices about how I spend my time, where they want to go, and what experiences they want to have, rather than focusing solely on medical treatments, hospital visits, or dealing with treatment side affects.
Its about adventure, learning about different cultures, is often synonymous with adventure, new experiences, and personal growth. Yet, for many, it also brings up feelings of fear and anxiety. Whether it’s fear of flying, worries about being far from home, or concerns about managing a health condition while abroad, travel anxiety is real. Fortunately, with some thoughtful preparation and the right mindset, you can overcome these fears and embrace the excitement of new destinations.
1. Identify Your Triggers
The first step in addressing travel anxiety is understanding what causes it. Are you nervous about flying? Concerned about getting lost or not knowing the local language? Perhaps it’s the fear of being far from medical care or dealing with a chronic illness while away from home. Once you recognize your triggers, you can work on managing them.
For example, if flying makes you uneasy, learning about how airplanes function or practicing breathing techniques might help calm your nerves. If you’re worried about getting lost, you can familiarize yourself with maps and local transportation options ahead of time.
Personal Insight:
“For me, flying used to be a huge source of anxiety. Turbulence and the feeling of being stuck in the air made me dread trips. Once I understood that my fear was rooted in losing control, I began practicing relaxation techniques, like deep breathing and using calming music during flights.”
2. Plan Ahead
Being well-prepared can significantly reduce travel anxiety. Researching your destination allows you to anticipate what to expect. Look up transportation options, familiarize yourself with local customs, and plan your route from the airport to your accommodation. Having a plan in place gives you a sense of control, reducing the fear of the unknown.
Personal Insight:
“Before my first solo trip to Japan, I was anxious about not knowing the language. I spent hours learning key phrases and transportation tips. By the time I landed, I felt more confident and could navigate the unfamiliar surroundings with ease.”
3. Start Small
If the idea of a long journey is overwhelming, begin with smaller, less intimidating trips. A weekend getaway or a road trip can help you build confidence before tackling a bigger adventure. These smaller experiences can show you that travel is not as overwhelming as it may seem.
Personal Insight:
“My first big solo trip felt too daunting, so I started with a weekend trip to a nearby city. This experience helped me get used to being in unfamiliar places and gave me the confidence to travel further.”
4. Practice Relaxation Techniques
When anxiety starts to creep in, especially during travel, it’s essential to have tools to help you stay grounded. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even listening to calming music can make a big difference. Apps like Calm and Headspace offer guided meditations that are ideal for easing pre-travel nerves.
Personal Insight:
“When I fly, I always bring noise-canceling headphones and listen to soothing music. Deep breathing exercises right before takeoff also help calm my nerves.”
5. Focus on the Positives
Rather than concentrating on what could go wrong, shift your mindset to what excites you about your trip. Visualize the new experiences you’ll have, the local cuisine you’ll try, or the beautiful sights you’ll see. Focusing on these positive aspects can diminish fear and remind you why you wanted to travel in the first place.
Personal Insight:
“When I traveled to Italy, I was anxious about getting around, but I chose to focus on the excitement of trying the food and seeing the art. Keeping my mind on these positive aspects helped me enjoy the trip.”
6. Talk to Someone
Sometimes, sharing your travel concerns with others can offer immense relief. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or an online travel community, discussing your anxieties can provide you with support and even practical advice. You might find that many people share the same fears and have helpful tips for managing them.
Personal Insight:
“Before my first solo trip, I reached out to a travel forum. Hearing others talk about their travel fears made me feel less alone, and the advice I received helped me stay calm during my journey.”
7. Seek Professional Help If Needed
If your travel anxiety feels unmanageable, it’s okay to seek help from a professional. Therapists can offer coping strategies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help you reframe anxious thoughts. This kind of support can be especially useful if your anxiety about travel has become overwhelming.
Personal Insight:
“At one point, my travel anxiety became so intense that I consulted a therapist. They introduced me to cognitive-behavioral techniques that helped me manage worst-case scenarios and allowed me to feel more in control of my travel fears.”
Special Considerations for Traveling with a Chronic or Terminal Illness
For those managing a chronic or terminal illness, travel can pose additional challenges, but it’s still possible to explore the world with the right preparation. Here are some specific tips for overcoming physical and emotional barriers:
• Plan for Fatigue: Build in rest periods during your trip and schedule light activities to avoid overexertion.
• Pain Management: Consult your doctor about travel-friendly medication plans, and carry extra doses in case of delays. Consider upgrading to a more comfortable seat during long flights or train journeys.
• Proximity to Medical Care: Choose destinations known for having reliable healthcare facilities. Ensure your travel insurance covers pre-existing conditions and emergency care.
• Immune System Support: Stay mindful of infection risks. Travel with a hand sanitizer, and avoid crowded places when possible.
• Mobility Challenges: Pre-book assistance at airports or transportation hubs, and opt for accessible accommodations.
• Emotional Support: Travel with a companion or ensure that you have a solid support network at home that you can reach out to during your travels.
Example:
“When traveling while managing chronic fatigue, I planned my days with ample downtime between activities. I chose destinations with reliable healthcare and made sure to have easy access to rest areas during tours.”
Conclusion
Fear and anxiety about travel are normal, but they don’t have to hold you back from enjoying the world. By identifying your triggers, preparing thoroughly, and practicing relaxation techniques, you can face your fears and embark on incredible adventures. For those with health concerns, careful planning and support systems ensure that travel can still be an enriching and manageable experience. Every trip offers a chance to grow, explore, and create lasting memories.
This article maintains the core elements of your thoughts, rearranged for clarity, cohesiveness, and engagement, while also addressing practical concerns for travelers dealing with anxiety and health challenges.
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