If I could actually sit back and be objective and talk openly to someone about cancer I would begin with talking about survival and what tools I think you need to help you at any stage of cancer in making the hard decisions and dealing with the changes that come with the diagnosis and treatment. Knowing that from the time of diagnosis, we are all considered survivors would be step one. I think of what tools to arm yourself with to deal with what lies ahead and I would have to say that open, honest, communication and thorough education on your part as being an active part of the process would also be included. Getting answers from reputable sources and information and education would be vital. Don't just listen to stories from others, get the facts. Everyone has their own story to tell and we are all different in how we approach issues and how we deal with them as well. I would warn each and every person to realize that this experience is like life in every way with ups and downs and to anticipate that it is not just a direct route that we all follow. Each person's experience will be different depending on the type of cancer, the stage, the age of the person involved and all the other ramifications that affect your life including income, social supports, medical care availability and more. Listening and I mean actively listening to what the professionals tell you and to ask relevant questions without fear that your question may sound stupid. Keep in mind that if it is your question, there is nothing stupid about it, you need to know. Staying positive and keeping a sense of humor albeit it is often hard to do, is also an important step in survival. Family is the other important step that I have to say is imperative in my survival and maybe in yours. As I look at all of this I see that these are tools for every day survival for all. It may sound trite but isn't this something we all need to do on a daily basis and keep what is important in our sites at all times? Circumstances change and good and bad days are always out there, process what is important and what you can let go and find the happiness within. Reach out and let people in and love most of all- share and accept love. I have had awful moments and I wonder how my husband sticks beside me but he always is and continues to express his support and love and even in those awful moments, it is what keeps me going. It is what makes it a great day even when there are alligators! S
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AuthorMy name is Sue Kilburn and I am a clinical nurse breast cancer educator at the Yolanda G. Barco Oncology Institute in Meadville, Pennsylvania. Archives
March 2015
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