If you and your family understand your illness and its treatment
you will be better able to cope.
Always ask for information that is personal to you from your
own doctor.
Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Take your medication.
If you forget and are not sure what to do ask your doctor.
Write down the answers so you can go back to them again at a
later stage.
Let your doctor know if you have any problems or worrying side
effects. He or she can decide what to do to help you. If you say
nothing a small problem can become more serious.
At times you may not be able to do the things you used to take
for granted. But as you begin to feel better you can set yourself
some simple goals and slowly build your confidence again. Take
one step at a time. Many people talk about “fighting their cancer.”
This can help some people feel more in control of what is
happening to them. You can do this by becoming involved in
your illness.
Try to eat as well as you can. Eat little and often including lots
of different types of foods with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.
Think about joining a support group. These groups allow you to
talk through your feelings with others who have had treatment
for cancer.
Join a relaxation class or listen to tapes on relaxation.
Take some regular exercise. Take it easy at first, building up
the amount you do, as you feel stronger.
Some people find it helpful to talk to a counsellor.