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"This feeling of having ability is a real rebirth": cancer survivors' experiences in the desert journey rehabilitation program.

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Title: "This feeling of having ability is a real rebirth": cancer survivors' experiences in the desert journey rehabilitation program.
Authors: Levkovich, I. (AUTHOR), Hamama-Raz, Y. (AUTHOR), Kuperman, S. (AUTHOR), Bar-Doron, M. (AUTHOR), Hamama, L. (AUTHOR)
Source: Disability & Rehabilitation. May2026, Vol. 48 Issue 9, p2801-2813. 13p.
Subjects: Cancer survivors, Nonprofit organizations, Fear, Psychological resilience, Nature, Qualitative research, Self-efficacy, Interviewing, Content analysis, Judgment sampling, Emotions, Self-compassion, Experience, Sound recordings, Thematic analysis, Research methodology, Convalescence, Phenomenology, Data analysis software, Social support, Cancer patient rehabilitation, Psychological vulnerability
Geographic Terms: Israel
Abstract: Purpose: We explored the lived experiences of young cancer survivors who participated in Desert Journey, a nature-based rehabilitation program developed by the Israeli nonprofit organization Stop Cancer (Halasartan). The program aims to support recovery following cancer treatment completion. Methods: Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 participants (aged 29–46) who completed the program within the past two years. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed by using thematic content. Results: Three central themes emerged: (1) "Afraid I wasn't ready, physically or emotionally" – participants described fears of physical vulnerability, emotional overwhelm, and doubts about belonging; (2) "The body that had broken down walked with me again" – the trek enabled participants to reconnect with their bodies, fostering resilience, self-compassion, and mutual support; (3) "I wasn't sick, recovering, or fighting... just fully myself" – the desert environment offered a space for self-reflection, identity reconstruction, and emotional healing. Conclusion: Desert Journey offers a structured rehabilitative experience that addresses the physical, emotional, and existential needs of young cancer survivors. Through nature-based activity, peer support, and guided reflection, the program supports holistic recovery and identity rebuilding, highlighting the value of integrative approaches beyond traditional clinical care. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Nature-based rehabilitation programs such as Desert Journey offer young cancer survivors a unique setting to process emotional, physical, and identity-related challenges following treatment. Group treks in natural environments can foster a reconnection with the body, peer support, and self-efficacy, thereby contributing to post-treatment resilience and psychological recovery. Integrating experiential, outdoor, and peer-supported interventions into survivorship care may enhance rehabilitation outcomes and address the gaps in long-term psychosocial support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection
Description
Abstract:Purpose: We explored the lived experiences of young cancer survivors who participated in Desert Journey, a nature-based rehabilitation program developed by the Israeli nonprofit organization Stop Cancer (Halasartan). The program aims to support recovery following cancer treatment completion. Methods: Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 participants (aged 29–46) who completed the program within the past two years. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed by using thematic content. Results: Three central themes emerged: (1) "Afraid I wasn't ready, physically or emotionally" – participants described fears of physical vulnerability, emotional overwhelm, and doubts about belonging; (2) "The body that had broken down walked with me again" – the trek enabled participants to reconnect with their bodies, fostering resilience, self-compassion, and mutual support; (3) "I wasn't sick, recovering, or fighting... just fully myself" – the desert environment offered a space for self-reflection, identity reconstruction, and emotional healing. Conclusion: Desert Journey offers a structured rehabilitative experience that addresses the physical, emotional, and existential needs of young cancer survivors. Through nature-based activity, peer support, and guided reflection, the program supports holistic recovery and identity rebuilding, highlighting the value of integrative approaches beyond traditional clinical care. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Nature-based rehabilitation programs such as Desert Journey offer young cancer survivors a unique setting to process emotional, physical, and identity-related challenges following treatment. Group treks in natural environments can foster a reconnection with the body, peer support, and self-efficacy, thereby contributing to post-treatment resilience and psychological recovery. Integrating experiential, outdoor, and peer-supported interventions into survivorship care may enhance rehabilitation outcomes and address the gaps in long-term psychosocial support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:09638288
DOI:10.1080/09638288.2025.2583731