Try not to listen to gossip about other people’s experiences.
Unfortunately it is at times like this that people share all the dramatic experiences of someone else’s cancer.
It is their experience, not yours. Horror stories are your f friend’s way of voicing their fear – they are scared that you are going to die. Treatments are advancing quickly to minimize all the unpleasant side effects, and the survival rate of most cancers is increasing each year. Make a pact to surround yourself, in the first few weeks, only with those people who are sensitive to your needs and act in a supportive way. The gossips can wait until later! Likewise, you will be inundated with stories of how friends and relatives were ‘cured’ of their cancers by all sorts of unusual potions. Talk with your doctor about these. Your doctor will be quite familiar with these suggestions and can give you advice.
Do it in your way that makes you feel best and helps you cope.
Focus on the ‘success’ stories of cancer survivors
Ask your doctor to introduce you to someone who has made a successful recovery from your type of cancer. A ‘survivor-mentor’ can be a great support and inspiration during those ‘blue days’. Having someone there who has been down the same road and experienced all the things that you will is the best thing you can do at this stage. Cancer support groups can be a great way of finding like-minded people and support. Many women and their ‘expert’ friends will be tempted at the initial stage of diagnosis to search for as much information on the disease as is readily available. Most of it through the Internet. Ask your doctor to refer you to some credible, well-referenced sites. Many sites do not contain accurate information, and are often a dumping or cleansing ground for all the negativity that some experience. At this stage well-balanced information will help you most. The Cancer Council in your area is a great starting point for good resources. Remember that your doctor will be treating your specific needs and is the best person to discuss your concerns with.
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