I am in remission from Lymphoma cancer myself and I can tell you from experience when I was told I had Cancer I thought so I have cancer now what, am I going to die or what. The first thing I did was go online and started to read about the particular kind of Cancer I had. I got the heck scared out of me and stopped reading I cried for about an hour and then I called my Mom. Thank you God for my MOM!!!
I didn't let her know I had been crying and I was just calling to have a little chat. She is a very encouraging and optimistic person.
Oh did I forget to mention the surgeon that did the biopsy and let me know it was Cancer told me in his office that day ..."now don't go home and get on the Internet and scare yourself until you talk to your Oncologist (cancer doctor) this type of cancer is curable but has a tendency to come back now and again."
Well I didn't listen as you can tell...lol.
I can tell you this though, when you go for that first visit to your Oncologist take your immediate family. I know this may sound strange and I felt like we were invading his office but that's the best thing I could have ever done. I took my Mom, Dad and youngest daughter with me the oldest had to work. The Doctor was awesome about the whole thing he thought it was fantastic and answered everyones questions. For you see when your a little bit in shock it's nice to have others with you who can ask the questions you might not be thinking of and boy did they ask questions. It actually made me feel more at ease with them either to support me.
My advice is to ask when you make that first appointment if you can bring family with you. I can't imagine any Doctor saying no.
Tips:
- Have the best attitude you can muster.
- Laugh as much as possible so you don't cry...lol.
- Seek the support of your family and friends. Trust me they care.
- More than likely your going to lose your hair from Chemo so just get over it. It does grow back at least mine has. I know ladies this was a hard for me.
- Go early and check out wigs or hair pieces so your ready when it starts falling out.
- Did I mention attitude. Have the attitude your going to kick some Cancer butt and keep that in your mind at all times.
- Laugh again I can't mention this enough.
- Be sure and keep your family Doctor in the loop let them know how your doing.
- ASK QUESTIONS ALL THE TIME IT'S YOUR BODY AND YOUR LIFE AT STAKE HERE.
- Never be afraid to ask for a second opinion if your not comfortable with treatment thats being discussed. There are alternative treaments but there is one thats right for you.
- Depending on your Stage of Cancer I was lucky and found mine at Stage 1, find someone who has gone through the same type of cancer you have and talk to them they will be your wealth of information and resources.
I was in the hospital on my 4th cancer treatment and my mom's cousin was there also she had stage 4 cancer all over her body and she had made peace with God and her family and decided to go home to be with the Lord, she just knew her fight was over. Sometimes I think we just know instinctively when to fight and when God is calling us home. She let her family know she was ready to go home and they were happy for her and knew her pain would soon end. Joann we miss you sweetie and I know she gave my grandmother a big hug for me I am sure. (smiles)
Now a days, I live day to day and live life to the fullest as best I can and let my family know everyday or everytime I see them that I love them. One never knows what tomorrow will bring.
Again check out the site above or google Cancer there is a wealth of information and resources to be found on the Internet.
God bless us all each and everyone. We are unique individuals with much to offer those who pass our way on this journey through life.
Dianne
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