Planning

If there is just one piece of advice I can give you, it is to always have an advocate with you at appointments...a spouse, friend, relative or a coach. When faced with a cancer dianosis even the most brilliant and medically knowledgable person can become overwhelmed with the information given.
Today cancer patients have many options. It is critical that you find the best treatment plan and team for you and your cancer. I have written a few blogs on this and if you can, please view:
http://elynjacobs.blogspot.com/2011/05/empowerment-is-key-to-successful.html
http://elynjacobs.blogspot.com/2011/05/cancer-find-right-team.html The first thing that needs to happen is a series of tests and analyses, and potentially biopsy and surgery to learn more about the breast cancer. Breast cancer is different for everyone, and as much information as possible must be gathered in order to determine treatment options. These tests likely will take a week or two to perform and analyze the results. In the meantime, do whatever works for you to relax and not worry, whether that is pampering yourself, taking a trip, exercising, shopping, etc.

When you receive the results of the tests, make sure that you have copies of all your medical records (mammograms, test results and pathology slides, etc.) so you can have them for future consultations and appointments. You can get this information at any time, all you need to do is ask for it.

It is also recommended that you get a second opinion, or even a third or fourth, to help you feel more comfortable with your options. This will also help you to begin selecting your medical team. You will get a feel for the physicians that are the best fit for you and that will listen and spend time with you.

After you evaluate the test results and discuss your options with your medical team, the next step will be to decide on your treatment plan. The good news is that there will more than likely be quite a few options to choose from. There will be a lot of information to understand. The medical team and your personal support team will be helpful during this process. Make sure to ask a lot of questions.

Breathe, that's the first thing. Remember, your cancer has likely been growing for quite some time, so it is important not to rush when making decisions as to treatment.
Tanya is right, you must bring along an advocate, it is far too much to expect to process all that is said to you. Be sure to bring along a list of questions and do not leave if these questions are not answered. Be prepared to fire a doctor if you do not feel comfortable with his recommendations or personality. Please, get a second opinon, if nothing else, hearing the same information twice may make it easier to digest the treatment plan. Remember, it's your body, your life and there is life after cancer; find the team that is best for you and your cancer. I'd like to share with you a blog I posted:
http://elynjacobs.blogspot.com/2011/05/cancer-find-right-team.html" target=_blank>http://elynjacobs.blogspot.com/2011/05/cancer-find-right-team.html
To view another great post on this topic, please view:
http://bit.ly/mu0LVB Breathe, that's the first thing. Remember, your cancer has likely been growing for quite some time, so it is important not to rush when making decisions as to treatment.
Tanya is right, you must bring along an advocate, it is far too much to expect to process all that is said to you. Be sure to bring along a list of questions and do not leave if these questions are not answered. Be prepared to fire a doctor if you do not feel comfortable with his recommendations or personality. Please, get a second opinon, if nothing else, hearing the same information twice may make it easier to digest the treatment plan. Remember, it's your body, your life and there is life after cancer; find the team that is best for you and your cancer. I'd like to share with you a blog I posted:
http://elynjacobs.blogspot.com/2011/05/cancer-find-right-team.html" target=_blank>http://elynjacobs.blogspot.com/2011/05/cancer-find-right-team.html
To view another great post on this topic, please view:
http://bit.ly/mu0LVB