One of the scariest things a person can hear at the doctor’s office is, “You have cancer.” And unfortunately, it’s a phrase nearly half of all men and one third of all women will hear in their lifetime.
If you were recently diagnosed with cancer, it can feel as if your entire life has changed in the blink of an eye. But knowing the steps to take after a cancer diagnosis can help you cope with it.
1. Feel the way you feel.
From anger to sadness, a cancer diagnosis can cause a person to feel a number of different emotions. Whatever you feel, know that it’s valid. Before you can tackle treatment, you need to give yourself time to be upset.
2. Get informed.
Once the initial shock has begun to wear off, it’s important to educate yourself. What type of cancer do you have? What stage cancer is it? What does each stage mean? What are your treatment options? These are just some of the many questions you should begin asking a trusted source.
3. Get organized.
Doctors visits are about to become a routine part of your week, so it’s important to start a notebook or binder containing all of your appointments. You should also organize all of your medical paperwork so that it’s easy for you and your doctors to read.
4. Speak openly about your diagnosis.
Everyone is entitled to share their diagnosis with others as they please, however keeping it a secret tends to do more harm than good. Keeping your diagnosis a secret can add stress to your situation and limit your circle of support.
5. Make your health a priority.
Your job, travel plans, and even kid’s activities should all take a backseat to your health now. Remember, it’s not selfish to put yourself first during a time like this. By making yourself a priority now, you’ll be around for many more years of memories.
6. Consider a second opinion.
Cancer treatment is complicated and rarely is there only one right path to take. Whether you’re nervous about the proposed plan or are simply curious about alternative options, never be afraid to consult other specialists. At Beverly Oncology, we’ve pioneered solutions in radiation oncology.
Beverly Oncology & Imaging offers state-of-the-art medical technology with greater convenience than hospitals can offer. We are leaders in our field, using cutting-edge technology like Rotating Gamma Technology™,External Beam therapy, and brachytherapy. Contact us today to discuss treatment options or to make an appointment.