While reading a recent article in The Costco Connection, Coping with Cancer, it occurred to me that a post was in order. I truly have a lot to say about the world of cancer, yet it seems that finding the time to contribute to the dialogue is always a challenge.
The article I have linked to has a terrific text box with key questions to ask upon learning you (or your loved one) has cancer. A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to attend a Blood Cancer Conference in Atlanta, which was organized by The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. One of the presentations truly "hit the nail on the head" when it noted that when someone is diagnosed with cancer, it is one of the darkest moments of their lives. This is also true for the family members. Speaking from personal experience, there was nothing that could have prepared me for the moment my sister was diagnosed.
Through our experience, I have become ever more certain of the need for reliable information, including the gathering of tips from fellow cancer warriors and caregivers. There are no dumb questions -- you are dealing with a serious illness and the medical professionals on your team know that. Do not hesitate to ask questions -- lots of them. I would often go into Deana's appointments with pages of questions we had.
It is so important to have as much knowledge as you can handle (because there can be a point of overload) as you navigate your "new normal." As this article, and many others, suggest, it is a good idea to have a family member or friend with you at your appointments to serve as notetaker. This important member of your cancer-fighting team can debrief with you following the appointment to be sure that everything was understood correctly. If there are gray areas, those serve as good questions for the next appointment.
If ever I think that I am going to the extreme with my question-asking, I remind myself that while these doctors and nurses have many patients, I have only one -- my precious sister. I am thankful to be able to serve as her advocate, cheerleader and note-taker.
