Connecting with Others
Being able to talk to someone who has been through a similar experience is very
beneficial. Seeking the support of others provides an opportunity to discuss
problems, seek information, share ideas, and learn how to cope and adapt to the
outcomes and changes they caused. Eighty-four percent of cancer patients report that
they felt they needed, but were unable to find, several specific types of help
at the time of their cancer diagnosis, including:
- Information on what they or their loved ones might experience1
- Talking to other people who had cancer;
- Being able to connect with someone else who had been through a similar experience;
Caregivers Have Needs Too
The demands on caregivers can be great. In fact, nearly 40 percent of the 150 cancer patients surveyed said that their primary caregiver spent more than 4 days per week assisting them with medical care. Patients said their caregivers helped them with a variety of activities, such as:
- Providing emotional support (88 percent);
- Talking to the doctor (79 percent);
- Helping them make treatment decisions (73 percent);
- Seeking out information regarding their cancer and chemotherapy
(67 percent).2
While being attentive to your loved one’s needs, you must also ensure you meet your own individual needs. By maintaining your emotional and physical well-being, you will improve your ability to assist you loved one. Build in time for regular exercise, meditation or some other form of relaxation. Take advantage of offers from friends and family to run errands, prepare meals and assist with life’s daily needs. Seek the support of a caregiver who has been there and can provide emotional support, encouragement, and understanding.3
Please refer to the information on this web site regarding the Voices of Experience Network to find out how you can be matched with a caregiver who has been through a similar experience.
Looking Ahead
As overwhelming and stressful as your current situation may be, you play a critical role in your loved one’s life. Please take advantage of the resources ranging from Internet web sites to books to support groups to help you and your loved one better understand the difficult road ahead of you. Use these resources to look beyond the diagnosis, cope with the treatment and its side effects, and continue living a full and enjoyable life.
Any information you receive from this Web site or in speaking with a support volunteer is not meant to replace care and advice from your loved one’s medical team. Use this information to help you discuss any questions or concerns you might have with your medical team.
Amgen Cancer Patient Internet Survey, May 2002
Amgen Cancer Patient Internet Survey, May 2002
National Family Caregivers Association, Web Site, 2002
UNDERSTANDING CANCER
TREATING CANCER WITH CHEMOTHERAPY
CHEMOTHERAPY SIDE EFFECTS
TREATING CANCER IN OTHER WAYS
TRACKING YOUR TEST RESULTS
UNDERSTANDING INSURANCE AND TAX ISSUES: INSURANCE TIPS
WEB RESOURCES AND ORGANIZATIONS
TOOLS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR CANCER INFORMATION
FOR CAREGIVERS
GLOSSARY OF CANCER TERMS
REGISTER FOR PROGRAMS
FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS
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Help protect against infection, a serious side effect
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