The journey ahead
Acquiring the skills you need.
It takes strength to survive cancer. Never lose sight of that as you go forward.
Having other basic skills also helps.
Communicating.
Learn how to let people know what you think and feel, and learn what others think
and feel, too. This simple checklist can help:
- State positively what you want and need
- Let people know what you feel as well as what you think
- Try saying “I think” or “I feel” when you’re letting people know what you want
- Listen actively and check the message you’re receiving
- Don’t neglect nonverbal communications; It’s okay, for instance, to
initiate a hug if you need one.
Finding information.
Having access to the information you need matters whether you’re undergoing, or
have finished, cancer treatment. Be sure to:
- Find good information on the type of cancer you have and the types of treatment
that offer the best record of success
- Pick the doctors you respect and trust to be part of your healthcare team
- Know when and how to seek a second opinion
Making decisions.
Take a look at the way you make decisions. Then ask yourself if that style can be
improved. Here are some suggestions:
- Identify how you prefer to make decisions
- Find out the benefits of getting second opinions
- Always know how much time you have to make a decision
- Never forget that you’re you – not a statistic
Solving problems.
Solving problems may be easier when you keep the following in mind:
- Identify and define the problem
- Gather relevant information
- Make a plan of action
- Carry out the plan
- Evaluate the plan and make any necessary adjustments
Negotiating.
Talking and negotiating are essential at every stage of your cancer treatment journey
– and afterwards. Always:
- Listen and communicate effectively
- Set your personal limits – boundaries you won’t cross
- Learn to set emotions aside when negotiating
- Remember, there usually is more than one solution to a problem
Stand up for your rights.
Learn to do things that are best for you by keeping the following in mind:
- Never forget to be your own advocate
- Remind yourself that you’re strong
- Reach out to others
- Try to feel hopeful rather than helpless
Find out about resources for cancer survivors