In Kingdom Hearts, Cure is a magic ability that restores a small amount of HP to the user. It can also be used to cure a character’s status effects. The ability has three forms: Cure, which restores a smaller amount of HP; and Curaga, which restores a larger amount of HP. It costs one MP bar to use. Unlike Restore, Cure does not automatically recharge.
However, many patients find themselves in the midst of a never-ending battle, even after their cancer is gone for good, unable to let go of the fear that it will return. The risk of future recurrence can make oncologists shy away from using the word cure, in favor of other terms such as “remission,” “no evidence of disease,” and “most likely cured.”
Oncologists who do use the term are often hesitant to do so. They worry that they will be seen as making a promise that might be broken, especially when the risk of recurrence is less than 5%. The fear can even prevent patients from seeking needed follow-up care, which is a critical step in maintaining a cure.
Researchers are working on the next generation of therapies, with new tools such as genomics and molecular imaging enabling scientists to target diseases at their roots. These advances may accelerate the pace of finding cures for incurable diseases and bring the hope of a better future to more patients than ever before. But for now, reassurance from an oncologist can help ease the anxiety of those still struggling.