Friends After Diagnosis

THE FIVE C' s OF COPING WITH CANCER

Few things strike fear into the hearts of most humans, like these three words, “You have cancer. ” The diagnosis creates a swirling whirlwind of emotions, racing thoughts, and many questions. A cancer diagnosis can turn a person’s world upside down—emotionally, physically, and financially.

Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery usually come to mind when thinking of cancer care. However, a holistic approach to cancer care ensures the application of effective treatment options and consideration of the person's response to the disease, treatment, and other aspects of their personal life. Integrative medicine, including acupuncture, nutrition, vitamins and supplements, medical marijuana, yoga, and meditation, play a significant role in the patient’s treatment plans. In addition, cancer care organizations such as Friends After Diagnosis provides support meetings, personal services, financial advice, wellness programming, and other resources that may ease other stressors associated with navigating the treatment and recovery process. While there are many paths and options for cancer treatments, most include similar essential elements for a less stressful cancer journey.

For more information on cancer support and resources in our community, please email Carolyn Nelson at Friends After Diagnosis at Carolyn@FriendsAfterDiagnosis.com, or visit the organization's website at FriendsAfterDiagnosis.com.

Outlined below are several of those essential elements:

Caregiving – A caregiver is usually an unpaid loved one who gives the person with cancer physical and emotional care. They may be spouses, partners, family members, or close friends. Though not professionally trained, caregivers are problem solvers and often prove to be the lifeline for a person with cancer. Caregivers may assist with day-to-day tasks, manage medications, and coordinate cancer care. For cancer patients, it is essential to have someone on their team who will listen to and advocate for them. Meeting with doctors and understanding the diagnosis and treatment plans may require a second set of ears. Having someone who can take notes, help create to-do lists, and offer emotional support can make all the difference in the treatment and recovery process.

Collaboration – Medical professionals' approach and address medical problems from distinct aspects based on their medical training and specialties. Frontline nurses screen for stress, physical symptoms, and other sources of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual angst. Adequate medical care for a complex diagnosis like cancer requires interprofessional coordination from various healthcare professionals. In addition to physicians, treatment may require consultations with dieticians, pharmacists, and an oncology team. A more integrated approach to cancer care will require engaging other professionals such as social workers, patient navigators, clergy, and cancer support through local organizations, such as Friends After Diagnosis. Combining the expertise and resources of multiple organizations and professionals ensures that patients can access adequate resources and support during treatment and beyond.

Community – No one should have to face cancer alone. Cancer support can come from family, a circle of friends, and others like therapists and clergy. Additionally, support organizations like Friends

After Diagnosis, which provide access to support meetings, personal services, and community resources, are available to patients, caregivers, and survivors regardless of where they receive treatment. Matches can be requested based on diagnosis or other related cancer experiences. Whether you are newly diagnosed, in active treatment, or moving forward after a cancer diagnosis, volunteers are ready to help.

Compassion – Those who feel supported during cancer treatment and recovery report better quality of life and well-being. If cancer comes, access to a range of medical professionals and having friends and family providing support will grant access to resources to cope with stress, emotional turmoil, and all that comes with receiving cancer treatment and the lengthy recovery. It is also essential for those diagnosed with cancer to practice self-compassion. It allows a measure of grace for oneself and self-care through healthy eating, encouraging oneself, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in wellness programs specifically structured for cancer recovery.

Courage – Cancer not only affects physical health but can also trigger a wide range of emotions, which can change instantly. These feelings are normal and experienced whether in or after treatment.

Those diagnosed with cancer must have a voice in the treatment and recovery progress. A person diagnosed with cancer must also be free to decide treatment plans and medical options. Caregivers and other supportive entities best serve the patient by supporting their choices and fulfilling requests for care and treatment.

Written by Carolyn Thornton Nelson Photography provided by National Cancer Institute

ACCOUNTABILITY - We stick with you along the way to help make sure you follow through on your financial goals. We regularly review your plan and give guidance on the next steps required to reach your goals.

PROACTIVITY - We work on looking ahead and planning life's transitions. We anticipate life's many changes, so the action plan is on standby and ready to go.

EDUCATION - By getting to know you, we can identify what specific pieces of financial planning knowledge is most important for you and your plan. We then explain the important topics, so you fully understand your options.