What is the most important advice you give to just diagnosed cancer patients to help with the journey?

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SherylNessRNOCN (Nurse (Verified) ) - 05 / 21 / 2012

1 vote(s) by murray
When a patient is first diagnosed with cancer, it is like being on a roller coaster. It's normal to be emotional when you hear the words cancer. It can bring about feelings of shock and fear of the unknown. Take time to understand your diagnosis; don't be afraid to ask questions, seek information and resources until you are fully comfortable with your situation and the proposed treatment plan. Ask a close friend or family member to attend your appointments with you to take notes or keep track of your questions. Information sources should be reliable, ask your health care team for good sources and seek out the nearest cancer resource library to find an educator, patient navigator (a great resource is the American Cancer Society Navigator Program 1-800-2345) or social worker (ask about this at your Cancer Center). Remember that every person has an individual course of treatment and recovery. Focus on one step at a time. Most importantly, remember that you are not alone. Seek support along the way from those that love you.

Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified) ) - 05 / 18 / 2012

One of the most common challenges my clients face after diagnosis is feeling overwhelmed. This is often amplified by a sense of the clock ticking with regard to choosing a treatment center and/or treatment options. Becoming educated quickly can feel like trying to jump onto a speeding train. Often the solution my clients create for themselves is to put together a support team to share in things that need addressing immediately. Doing so also gives your community a chance to be in action during a time when they are often filled with great concern for the patient and want to make a difference.

While there is a limit to what we can or even want to learn via the internet, some research is often essential...even if it is just a list of questions to ask your doctor. Being prepared with just that alone can reduce stress and help acquire important information. Though coaching is not about advising, I do see that when patients build a web of support and allow others to contribute, it can not only help with their journey but also the journey of their loved ones since cancer is not a one person illness due to the ripple effect impact its diagnosis has on a community.
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member7087 (Survivor (5 - 10 years)) - 05 / 20 / 2012

As a 2 time survivor of breast cancer, and 5 years cancer free, I feel my answer from the perspective of a patient is important. The first thing I would tell someone with a cancer diagnosis is to take someone with you to appointments. You cannot absorb all the information. I am a questioner, a researcher and a partner in my own wellness. I write down what is said and listen closely. Just because you are hearing the word "CANCER" and it scares you is not a reason to fall apart. It is a time to educate yourself.
As an M.D., I personally would say, go slowly, and compassionately. It's important. Letting the patient know that they have time to breathe and think about what is the best approach for them is crucial. Let them know that they may want to consider another opinion is also important. Offer the test results. Let them know that in many cases cancer is not a death sentence. Above all reserve harsh honesty, and your opinion. Be honest, yet gentle.
Some M.D.s, out there, can only give a few protocols and as a patient they will not disclose this information. An institute, such as, M. D. Anderson,(and others) can offer you everything that is on the market or is in a trial. Your chances of survival just went up. You are seeing a team of doctors that are looking at only you. ONLY YOU. They are writing a survival plan for only you. They have the knowledge, because it is ALL they do everyday. That doctor you "just love" could just be your death sentence. Step out of your comfort zone for a cure. Be bold in the face of your fear and do NOT back down. Fire a doctor if you don't like his approach. It is your life. And your money.
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