Learning you have a serious illness, such as breast cancer, can cause anxiety, anger and fear about what it'll mean to you, your family and your career. Here's how you can navigate the journey, with advice from people who have been through it.
1. Get to know your medical team.
"Establishing relationships early on is key," says Pat Baruth, an advanced practice nurse at the London Health Sciences Centre in Ontario. Don't be afraid to ask questions or to get clarification if you are confused by something. Be confident you are getting honest responses. Along with research, communication will help you better understand what is happening to you, says Baruth. Keep a notebook with you to write down questions as you think of them and refer to it at appointments.
2. Do your research, but know where to look.
Every diagnosis is different and it's important to know what to expect and what to ask your doctor. But before you type "breast cancer" into an Internet search engine, be aware that it's easy to be overwhelmed with information, and not all of it is credible.
Start with sites you can trust, such as the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (www.cbcf.org) and Willow Breast Cancer Support Canada (www.willow.org). Both organizations offer up-to-date information packages that are free to download or order from their websites. Their information will walk you through the basics of a breast cancer diagnosis. When you are ready to delve further into your diagnosis, Willow staff can tailor a package for you. Contact the organization at 1-888- 778-3100.
Tip: All services are national, free and confidential.
3. Find support and connect with others.
"Support groups make you realize you aren't alone," says Virginia Yule, a breast cancer survivor and executive director of Willow Breast Cancer Support Canada. Call your cancer clinic or Willow for information about services in your area.
Page 1 of 2 - On page 2: Read about online support.
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