The doctor has just told you that you have cancer. As you wrestle with a range of emotions, you may wonder, “what should I do now?”
Consider the following tips to help you cope with your diagnosis:
- Get your facts right
Organise your thoughts. Write down your questions before your doctor’s appointment. If you are researching cancer online, be sure to counter-check this information with your doctor as not all online content is reliable.
You may want to ask your doctor:- “What type of cancer do I have and where is it located?”
- “Has my cancer spread?”
- “What further tests do I need?”
- “What are my treatment options?”
- “What can I expect?”
- Find a doctor
Get a referral from your primary care doctor or experienced family members, friends, or colleagues. You may also wish to seek a second opinion from another doctor to get more information. - Find out about the available medical treatments
Your doctor may advise a combination of treatment methods to achieve the best outcome. Clinical trials may also be available as one of your treatment options. - Get organised
Find an efficient way to track information such as medical appointments, laboratory tests results, treatment side effects, insurance information, and finances. Create a simple filing system using folders and spreadsheets to record important information. - Find support to cope with challenges
Remember, you are not alone. Don’t isolate yourself. Seek support from your family, friends, healthcare professionals, or the community to journey through this challenging time.
Learn To Accept Help
This is the time for you to accept hands-on help from family and friends. Help could come in the form of a simple gesture, such as doing the school run or babysitting the kids when you go for your medical appointments.
Plan Ahead
Ask your doctor what to expect during your treatment. Questions like “would I be able to continue with my normal routine and responsibilities?” or “how much medical leave from work is expected?” will help you to plan ahead.
Talk About It
Join a support group, rope in support from family and friends, talk to your cancer care team, or seek professional counselling.
Find Ways To Ease Stress And Tension
Keep a journal of your treatment journey or engage in other enjoyable activities like painting, listening to music, reading, or meditation.
Work Out a Budget
Ask your doctor and cancer care team about the estimated cost of cancer treatment as well as other unexpected expenses for transportation, scans, or medical accessories and devices. Knowing what to expect early can help you work out your finances more effectively.
Seek Financial Advice
Healthcare providers, case managers, or social workers can offer advice on financial options. Seek help when in doubt. More information on the financial aspects of cancer can be found in Financing Cancer Treatment.