What to do When You're first Diagnosed

If you’ve ever had to deal with cancer for you or a loved one, being diagnosed can be a scary thing. No one wants to hear they have or may have cancer, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach as to what you should or should not do. What we do know, however, is that how you address, react, and adjust to the news can have a profound impact toward a positive outcome. We’ve put together a list of best practices when you’re first diagnosed - the dos and don’ts for giving you the best fighting chance.

Remember that most cancers are highly treatable when detected early.   

Reach out to organizations that support your specific type of cancer. Every diagnosis is different. Organizations that specialize in your specific cancer are the best resource for getting the most accurate and timely information. 

Be a self-advocate. Being a self-advocate means teaming up with those who can help support you physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially. Ask questions about your disease and treatment to your care team. Let them know your apprehensions. Tell them when you’re not feeling well. What hurts. How often you’re sick. Fatigue. Your care team won’t know unless you tell them.  

Realize that there is no such thing as “no news is good news” when it comes to cancer. Ask questions about results or treatment that you don’t understand.

Your medical record is yours and you have a right to know what it contains. Joint your providers  patient portal where you can receive up to the minute news on your lab results, imaging results, tumor marker blood levels, conditions, medications, summaries, billing, and other health information.

Understand the side effects of your treatment. Follow up with your physician if you experience side effects that are above what is considered normal. Doing so will help reduce unwanted complications that could inhibit your progress and recovery.

Receive support and encouragement from a compassionate group of individuals who are going through similar experiences. But be choosy. Know where and who you’re getting this support from. 

Limit online searches of mortality facts. Such sites are provided for statistical information only. They do not necessarily reflect your individual circumstance. Your lifestyle, nutrition, exercise habits, and mindset have a lot to do with your overall prognosis.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Be sure they’re balanced. Stay nourished, especially if feeling nauseated. Try to eat high-calorie, protein packed foods and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Eliminate or limit your intake of sugar and processed foods. Read labels. Some foods look and are advertised as healthy but are packed with sugar for taste. 

Exercise as you can. Don’t do anything strenuous, but keep active, doing small things slowly.

Prioritize your well-being and maintain a healthy lifestyle. In a nutshell, this means eating a balanced diet, staying active, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and following your provider’s treatment plan.

Get plenty of sleep.

Don’t ignore persistent or new symptoms that are not normal.

Don’t take new medications or supplements without consulting your doctor first. Everyone will give you advice. Don’t be tempted by unverified claims that your provider hasn’t prescribed. Off label use of medications based upon the advice of friends or the internet can be detrimental to your overall well-being.

Address financial concerns. Talk to your provider about healthcare costs, assistance offered, and options available. Discuss with your employer how your diagnosis may impact your ability to carry out your duties.

Don’t procrastinate. On anything, whether it be your treatment, connection with friends and family, seeking support, or finalizing healthcare and financial arrangements.

Be optimistic but realistic.

Be prepared for a challenging experience. Don’t neglect your emotions, anxiety, stress, or depression. Cancer is a serious journey. Prepare yourself mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Don’t underestimate the effects of chemo fog. It’s real, and you may suffer from it for weeks, months, or long after.

Be aware of depression. Especially if you’re susceptible to it, and especially following chemo or surgery.

Journal your experience. Journaling helps you remember the important aspects of your disease, your treatment, your progress, and the experience you’ve been through. Document instructions from your care team that you heard but likely won’t remember after the appointment. Document how you felt, how far you’ve come, and how much closer you are to achieving your goals.

There’s more recommendations, I’m sure, but this list will get you started. Let us know how you’re doing. We’d like to know.

Contact me at mytalitypodcast@gmail.com. My name is Gary.