Corinne’s Portfolio

Published at reidhealth.org, November 2015

After receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and anxious about the uncertainty ahead. Take time to understand your diagnosis and learn about the support resources available in your community. As you begin to develop a treatment plan with your doctors, it’s important to take an active role in your well being, empower yourself with knowledge, and know that you’re not alone.

Become actively involved in your care plan

After your breast cancer diagnosis, you’ll meet a care team dedicated to your treatment. This team will answer your questions and explore your treatment options. You may want to bring a friend or family member to your appointments to lend support and serve as an extra set of ears for processing the information.

Don’t be afraid to speak up. You should feel comfortable having an honest discussion with your oncologist, nurses and support staff. If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification. There are no silly questions.

Opt for a healthy lifestyle

Remember that healing involves your whole self, and that reaching out to a counselor, therapist, or even social worker can be a health-enabling component of your care journey. Proactively making healthy choices is another great way to take control of your overall well-being and help your body fight breast cancer. Making small changes in your everyday living, such as limiting your alcohol intake, taking daily walks, reducing stress, or quitting smoking, are key to a healthy lifestyle and are important components of cancer care.

Above all, continue to participate in activities that bring you joy. A breast cancer diagnosis will require time to absorb. It’s important to be kind to yourself. Read a good book, socialize with friends and laugh whenever possible.

Understand your treatment options

Having answers to your questions will help you to feel more in control and minimize anxiety. Ask your doctor for your pathology report, and begin an open dialogue about your unique breast cancer diagnosis. Reputable online resources such as the American Cancer Society can help you understand the medical language you might find in your test results and help you prepare for appointments with your care team. Keep a medical file at home for storing all the information you receive, so you’ll have it all in one place and easily accessible.

Find support

Every day, nearly 600 women in the United States receive a breast cancer diagnosis. Programs and services are available to help you and your family cope with your cancer diagnosis and treatment, both online and in your community. Joining support forums or participating in awareness events like Reid Health’s Bravo can empower you on the path to recovery.

Image source: morgueFile

Article source: Reid Health.