You've survived the initial shock of hearing the words, “You have cancer.” A supportive network made up by your family, friends and your medical team will be crucial as you consider treatment options, progress through treatment and, deal with side-effects. Your support system can help you maintain a schedule of treatments and follow-up appointments for blood work. Along the way, you and your family will have questions and someone can help you make lists for doctor's visits. 'Chemo fog' may make you a bit forgetful.
Surround yourself with positive people. Learn as much as you can about your cancer, possible side effects and, how to cope with them. You may need or want someone to drive you to and from treatments especially if you do not live near your facility. If you have to be away from family and friends, your medical team can help you network with someone who understands what you are going through and they can provide proximity support. You may find that counseling is helpful as you work through your feelings. Feelings of anger and depression are not unusual for patients or their caregivers.
You'll want to keep a journal of side effects, when they appeared and, what you did to treat them. Your doctor will need to know. Your supporters must know how important it is that you keep each appointment for treatment. Research shows that those who maintain consistency do better. Knowing your blood counts and being able to communicate in a knowledgeable way with your doctor will give you a sense of control. There are resources available to help you deal with insurance companies. The Internet has lists of contacts that can provide any information you might need to help you through your treatment journey.
Surround yourself with positive people. Learn as much as you can about your cancer, possible side effects and, how to cope with them. You may need or want someone to drive you to and from treatments especially if you do not live near your facility. If you have to be away from family and friends, your medical team can help you network with someone who understands what you are going through and they can provide proximity support. You may find that counseling is helpful as you work through your feelings. Feelings of anger and depression are not unusual for patients or their caregivers.
You'll want to keep a journal of side effects, when they appeared and, what you did to treat them. Your doctor will need to know. Your supporters must know how important it is that you keep each appointment for treatment. Research shows that those who maintain consistency do better. Knowing your blood counts and being able to communicate in a knowledgeable way with your doctor will give you a sense of control. There are resources available to help you deal with insurance companies. The Internet has lists of contacts that can provide any information you might need to help you through your treatment journey.
