25+ Songs About Cancer Diagnosis, Treatment & Remission | Cake Blog (2024)

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Music provides the soundtrack to life for many of us. It can offer us inspiration, help us recall happy memories, and so much more.

For instance, many people often turn to music for support when struggling with difficult life circumstances. This is particularly true of music fans who know someone struggling with an illness, or who are struggling with an illness themselves.

These songs about cancer and the fight against it clearly demonstrate the power music can have to help someone face cancer with greater strength and hope. Music can offer the same type of comfort to their loved ones. Thus, whatever your reason may be for making a playlist featuring songs about cancer, you might want to consider including some of these powerful examples.

Jump ahead to these sections:

  • Songs About a Cancer Diagnosis
  • Songs About Living With Cancer
  • Songs About Recovering From Cancer
  • Songs About Dying From Cancer
  • Songs for Children Living WIth Cancer

Songs About a Cancer Diagnosis

25+ Songs About Cancer Diagnosis, Treatment & Remission | Cake Blog (1)

Even if music can’t necessarily make a cancer diagnosis a genuinely easy experience to cope with, it can help someone find strength for the battle ahead, as these songs prove.

1. “Keep Breathing” by Ingrid Michaelson

Receiving a cancer diagnosis immediately makes a person worry about the future. However, this song serves as a reminder that, while you can’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow, if you’re alive right now, you can just keep moving forward with hope.

2. “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty

As is the case with many songs that often end up on cancer awareness playlists, this one may not actually be about cancer specifically, but numerous cancer patients have stated it helped them adopt a more positive attitude after receiving their initial diagnosis.

3. “Let it Hurt” by Rascal Flatts

Although you can interpret this song in a number of ways, the way the lyrics describe someone trying to put on a brave face after receiving some form of shocking news early one morning perfectly applies to an experience many have after first hearing they have cancer.

4. “Make it Go Away (Radiation Song)” by Sheryl Crow

It’s likely anyone who has ever received a cancer diagnosis can relate to the confusion these lyrics express. They perfectly touch on the desperate desire for something to simply make the illness go away.

5. “I’ll Stand by You” by The Pretenders

Again, not all songs about cancer need to actually discuss the illness. Many cancer patients have found comfort in songs that may not be directly related to what they are going through. For instance, this song’s lyrics illustrate the kind of support cancer patients need from loved ones when first receiving a diagnosis.

Songs About Living With Cancer

There are many productive but simple steps a cancer patient can take to help themselves look forward to a brighter tomorrow, such as future self journaling. They can also listen to one of these inspirational songs.

6. “Fight Like a Girl” by Anita Cochran

Singer Anita Cochran’s 2017 breast cancer diagnosis inspired her to write this song describing her feelings of determination in the face of a very painful and potentially overwhelming situation.

7. “I’m Gonna Love You Through It” by Martina McBride

This is among the most emotionally charged songs about cancer because it touches on the unique way family members (and any caretakers) can ideally provide support for someone who was diagnosed with this illness and is fighting for their life.

8. “Hold On” by Gregg Lizee, Ph.D.

Greg Lizee, Ph.D. was actually an associate professor at MD Anderson's Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology when he wrote this song of hope for not only his personal friend who was struggling with difficult circumstances, but for all cancer patients.

9. “Just Stand Up” by Artists Stand Up to Cancer

In 2008, numerous popular artists, including Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, Carrie Underwood, and quite a few others came together to perform this inspirational song for the “Stand Up to Cancer” telethon.

10. “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten

Although there’s little evidence to suggest this song is specifically about fighting cancer, many cancer patients have adopted it as an anthem for their personal fights against this illness.

Songs About Recovering From Cancer

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Surviving cancer is a triumphant experience. However, as some of these songs indicate, the struggle doesn’t immediately end for all cancer patients simply because they are no longer ill. Music can thus help them cope with the lingering challenges they may face.

11. “I Run for Life” by Melissa Etheridge

This is a particularly moving song about cancer because Melissa Etheridge wrote it about her own successful fight against breast cancer. As one of the most famous cancer survivors in popular music at the time, she also used her platform to inspire others facing the same struggles.

12. “Scar” by Carly Simon

After recovering from breast cancer, Carly Simon wrote this song to acknowledge that the struggle does leave scars, but if a survivor can accept them, they can move on through life with greater strength.

13. “Mission” by Lupe Fiasco

The massively inspirational lyrics of this song celebrate the “pink ribbon women” who overcome breast cancer even when doctors say they no longer have much time to live.

14. “When Pink Is Just a Color Again” by Kal Hourd

Many cancer survivors strive to help others fight against this illness after their recoveries. Many can also relate to the feelings this song expresses, in which Kal Hourd longs for the day when breast cancer is no more, and pink can just be another pretty color again.

15. “Flower” by Jewel

Jewel wrote the original version of this song to raise awareness about reconstruction for breast cancer survivors. It serves as a reminder that even when someone survives cancer, they may still face struggles that others should acknowledge.

Songs About Dying From Cancer

It’s important to accept the reality that not all cancer patients survive their illness. These songs make accepting this sad but true fact a little bit easier.

16. “3 AM” by Matchbox 20

This ‘90s tune was so catchy that many didn’t realize its inspiration was actually a period in singer Rob Thomas’s life when he was an adolescent watching his mother struggling with cancer. If you’re looking for songs about coping with a parent with cancer, this is one of the most moving when you genuinely pay attention to the lyrics.

17. “For Martha” by Smashing Pumpkins

The Smashing Pumpkins released this epic song about cancer and its emotional tolls after the death of bandleader Billy Corgan’s mother.

18. “Cancer” by My Chemical Romance

Many cancer patients potentially facing death feel the need to put on a brave face. This song’s raw lyrics remind us that this isn’t something that’s necessarily easy to do.

19. “Streets of Philadelphia” by Bruce Springsteen

This Oscar-winning song about being sick powerfully touches on the feelings of loneliness a person can face when struggling with a terminal illness. While Bruce Springsteen technically wrote the song for the movie Philadelphia about a man with AIDS, because its lyrics don’t mention any specific illness, it can also qualify as a song about cancer.

20. “The Drugs Don’t Work” by The Verve

Although some have mistakenly assumed this song’s title is a reference to recreational drugs, Richard Ashcroft of The Verve actually wrote this incredibly moving song to describe the feelings he experienced when his father was so close to his eventual death from cancer that his medication no longer had any positive effects, and in fact merely affected his emotional state negatively.

Post-planning tip: If you are the executor for a loved one who has passed away from cancer, handling their unfinished business can be overwhelming without a way to organize your process. We have a post-loss checklistthat will help you ensure that your loved one's family, estate, and other affairs are taken care of.

Songs for Children Living With Cancer

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A child going through cancer needs all the support they can get. These songs can help you provide it.

21. “O-o-h Child” by The Five Stairsteps

Often, a child going through cancer just needs to hear a reassuring message letting them know that life can and will get easier one day. This classic perfectly embodies such a message.

22. “We Are One” by Child 4 Child

This song is uniquely touching because it features numerous children with illnesses sharing the message that they understand each other’s struggles and are there to provide support for one another.

23. “Look Up Child” by Lauren Daigle

If you know a religious child struggling with cancer, consider recommending this song, which reminds a child that even when it seems their god isn’t listening, all they need to do is look up, and they may find their faith.

24. “The Cancer Song (Cancer Sucks)” by Larry Brewer

Sometimes, the best way to emotionally support a child with cancer is to make them laugh. This intentionally humorous song is ideal if that’s your plan, as it discusses the way many cancer patients sometimes wish they didn’t have to be sentimental or strong. They’d prefer to just admit it: cancer sucks.

25. “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles

While this is another song that isn’t specifically about cancer, it’s one of the most perfectly uplifting tunes to cheer up a child going through something no child should endure.

Songs About Cancer: Inspiration for Those in Pain

The healing power of music can’t be overstated. While songs about cancer can’t make the illness go away, they can offer a little bit of light in times of pain and darkness.

25+ Songs About Cancer Diagnosis, Treatment & Remission | Cake Blog (2024)

FAQs

What is a good song for a cancer survivor? ›

  • 1. “ Rise up” by Andra Day (2015)
  • 2. “ Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys (2012)
  • 3. “ Survivor” by Destiny's Child (2001)
  • 4. “ Scars to Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara (2015)
  • 5. “ Confident” by Demi Lovato (2015)

What country song is about surviving cancer? ›

"Superman" The Cancer Survivor Song by Jimmy Charles | ReverbNation.

Does someone in remission still have cancer? ›

Remission means that the signs and symptoms of your cancer are reduced. Remission can be partial or complete. In a complete remission, all signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared. If you remain in complete remission for 5 years or more, some doctors may say that you are cured.

What is a sweet message for cancer patient? ›

Genuine Messages of Support

Your unwavering strength inspires me each day. Sending love and positivity your way.” “Remember, you're never alone in this journey. I'm by your side every step of the way.”

What is the motivational message for cancer survivors? ›

"There's always hope beyond what you see." "It's possible not just to survive, but to thrive and to live a healthy, wonderful life again." "Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it." "Cancer is like a teeter-totter.

What is stand up to cancer music as healing? ›

In January 2020, the Stand Up To Cancer Canada Kate McGarrigle Fund launched the “Music As Healing” Grant Program, an initiative that encourages both cancer patients and cancer survivors, to share their cancer journey through original music compositions.

What country music star has a cancer diagnosis? ›

Country music star Toby Keith died February 5, 2024 at age 62, according to an announcement on his official website, following his battle with stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer. The following blog post on his cancer was published June 14, 2022, shortly after he publicly disclosed his diagnosis.

What is the prayer that cancer is gone? ›

May the Holy One, in mercy and compassion, restore you to health and vigor, and grant you physical and spiritual well-being together with others who are ill. Please fulfill the words of your prophet: “Heal me, O LORD, and let me be healed; Save me, and let me be saved” (Jeremiah 17:14).

What musician was diagnosed with cancer? ›

The rock band, Heart, has postponed their 2024 tour after their lead singer, Ann Wilson, revealed her cancer diagnosis.

What cancer has the highest remission rate? ›

The most curable cancers in the United States are cancers of the thyroid, breast, prostate, testes, and skin. These types of cancer are considered most treatable when diagnosed in the early stages. Cancer curability is often measured by the 5-year survival rate.

What is the hardest cancer to cure? ›

The 10 deadliest cancers, and why there's no cure
  • Pancreatic cancer.
  • Liver cancer and intrahepatic bile duct cancer.
  • Esophageal cancer.
  • Lung cancer and bronchus cancer.
  • Acute myeloid leukemia.
  • Brain cancer and other nervous system cancer.
  • Stomach cancer.
  • Ovarian cancer.
Apr 12, 2024

What won't oncologists tell you? ›

5 things they don't tell you about life after cancer
  • 1) Fatigue can last years after treatment. ...
  • 2) Your sleep habits may change. ...
  • 3) Anxiety and depression are common. ...
  • 4) You may struggle with body changes. ...
  • 5) Treatment may cause late and long-term effects. ...
  • Survivorship programs offer support even after treatment ends.
Jul 20, 2023

What is a positive mantra for cancer patients? ›

I am healthy, whole and full of vitality. It has given me the opportunity to create new memories with the people I love. Waking up every morning gives me a sense of purpose. I know that my journey in this world is just beginning.

What do cancer patients want to hear? ›

You are in my thoughts and prayers.”

Hearing that your wellbeing is on someone's mind can be a great comfort, and the act of praying may be very peaceful for you as well. If you or your loved one aren't religious, it's still helpful to hear someone is sending you good vibes daily.

What not to say to someone with cancer? ›

What Not to Say to a Cancer Patient
  • “Really you have cancer? ...
  • "Just live in the moment."
  • “I read about this new diet that cures cancer!”
  • “I know you will get better!”
  • “I know what you're going through. ...
  • “I can't stop worrying about you.” Please don't add another burden to my already heavy heart!
Mar 17, 2016

What do cancer survivors want to hear? ›

Instead of avoiding the situation, be straightforward while showing your support. Not knowing what to say is normal, and your honesty will be appreciated. There is no need to feel pressure about finding the perfect words. All a cancer patient wants to hear is that you are there for them.

How do you honor a cancer survivor? ›

Memorial Donation and Tribute Gifts. A donation to the American Cancer Society is a meaningful way to honor someone whose life has been impacted by cancer. Your gift can celebrate milestones in a cancer survivor's life or honor the memory of a loved one lost to this disease.

What is an uplifting celebration of life song? ›

One of the most timeless classics for celebrating life is the eternally happy song, “What a Wonderful World.” Armstrong's soulful and warm voice captures the essence of appreciating life's beauty, even amid grief. This song has become a beloved anthem for celebrating the life of a loved one who has passed.

What do you say to someone who just survived cancer? ›

Here are some ideas:
  • "I'm not sure what to say, but I want you to know I care".
  • "I'm sorry to hear that you are going through this".
  • "How are you doing?"
  • "If you would like to talk about it, I'm here".
  • "Please let me know how I can help".
  • "I'll keep you in my thoughts".
Oct 10, 2023

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