Your Initial Cancer Diagnosis
When your doctor tells you that you have cancer, it's like a slap in the face from whatever world you were living in. It can be startling and overwhelming. In a very short period of time, you are probed and examined by doctors and specialists. All kinds of medical terms are thrown at you. Your life is turned upside down. Appointments and procedures have to be scheduled. Blood tests have to be drawn. Second opinions? Sure, I guess so. It's a big challenge to wrap your head around because it happens so fast. Was I feeling vulnerable? You bet I was. The uncertainty of not knowing what was going to happen next had me worrying. I kept saying to myself, "I can't believe this is happening, it's so surreal". I felt disconnected from myself due to not having any control over my life.
Then there's the emotional part of informing family and friends. How are they going to handle it? Who will be there for me if I need help? Will they still look at me the same way?
Fortunately, for most cancer patients, it does slow down. You start to process some of the information. Your questions get answered. You understand what you are up against. You know the treatment and the side effects. You also need an excellent doctor who can explain what is happening and what to expect next.
It's A Team Effort
Dr. Ruggeri, Aurora St Luke's Medical Center, my first cancer doctor was phenomenal. In my first few appointments, I came in with all kinds of questions about my leukemia. I had a lot of questions that needed answers. I wanted to know. Why was this test ordered? What was he looking for? What concerns him? He was very patient with me and answered my questions thoroughly. Is there anything I can do? We went through every article I brought in.....and I brought in a lot of articles.
He appreciated me being an informed patient. He was very supportive of my proactive approach to fighting cancer. He respected my decision to get a second opinion. I love this guy because he's a great people person. This is backed up by how well-liked he is by his staff and patients. You need people on your team you can believe in. He was one of mine.
I also saw Dr. Medlin, who was also at Aurora St Luke's Medical Center, for my leukemia. I love this guy too. He explains the pros and cons of one treatment over the other. I like knowing I'm in good hands. He knows I am an informed patient; I do my own research. I know he has my best interests at heart, and I appreciate that. This is what cancer patients want, this is called trust.
Even the nurses and receptionists who assist my doctors are phenomenal. Joannie is one of my favorite nurses. She greets her patients like they are her lifelong friends. She has such a warm caring attitude which helps to put her patients at ease. I watch with amazement as she does her thing. I've made it a point to let my doctors know how instrumental she and other nurses are in setting the tone for each appointment. It's a team effort and they are valuable team members.
I have had my share of challenging times marked by uncertainty, fear, and countless questions. Developing a strong and positive relationship with them was very beneficial to me, but also a source of healing and hope I was going to be ok.
For what it's worth, my healthcare team was my motivation for designing inspirational Art Prints for healthcare personnel who share their kind of passion. Nurses like Joannie and my cousin Cindy (My hero nurse, more on this in a later blog) do such incredible work with patients. They spend the most time with patients and are more in tune with their needs than most realize.
I will say this. If at any point, I was not comfortable with my doctor I would have gone elsewhere. No doubt about it. It's so important to your mental well-being to know you have a good open relationship with your doctor. You should be able to talk to him/her about anything regarding your health and how it affects your everyday life. If you don't have this rapport, you should be looking elsewhere for another doctor.
Now some cancer patients do not want to know everything that is going on with their cancer and believe it's best to just let their medical team do their thing. If you are in this group of people that's ok too. There is no right or wrong here. It is all about you and what you are comfortable with. I was on the opposite side. Early on when I was first diagnosed. I butted heads with my significant other over these points. She didn't think I should question them so much. I have a need to know, period. This is me. My personal comfort level in coping was very dependent on me being on top of my health situation as much as I could. I make no apologies for this. Again, this is who I am....remember, do you, for you.
Building a rapport with your medical team helps to reduce anxiety and fear cancer patients frequently have. No question is ever a stupid question. Be open and honest about your lifestyle and habits. If you have treatment concerns, ask. If you don't ask you will never know. I like being proactive in my treatment plan. There was much in the beginning of my cancer journey I did not know. I learned far more than I ever wanted, but I am glad I did.
The Benefits Are Many
1. Expertise and Guidance: Your healthcare team, which may include oncologists, nurses, and various support staff, are experts in the field of cancer care. They possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that can guide you through the complex maze of treatment options and medical information.
2. Emotional Support: Cancer isn't just a physical battle; it takes a toll on your emotional and mental well-being as well. Your healthcare team is there to provide not just medical care but also a listening ear, empathy, and reassurance.
3. Personalized Care: One size doesn't fit all in cancer treatment. A strong patient-doctor relationship enables your healthcare team to tailor treatment plans to your unique needs, preferences, and circumstances. This personalized care increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.
4. Collaboration: Cancer care often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving various specialists. When you have a strong relationship with your healthcare team, it paves the way for effective collaboration among these experts, ensuring you receive comprehensive care.
5. Trust: Trust is the cornerstone of any patient-provider relationship. When you trust your healthcare team, you're more likely to follow their recommendations, share your concerns openly, and adhere to your treatment plan.
6. Communication: Effective communication is vital in understanding your treatment options, managing side effects, and addressing any concerns. Building a rapport with your healthcare providers makes it easier to ask questions and communicate openly, leading to better care.
7. Advocacy: A caring healthcare team can be a strong advocate for you. They will ensure that your needs are met, whether it's related to treatment, symptom management, or other aspects of care. Their commitment to your well-being is unwavering.
8. Education: Knowledge is empowering. Your healthcare team can educate you about your condition, treatment options, and self-care practices. The more you understand about your illness and treatment, the more actively you can participate in your care.
9. Hope and Positivity: A supportive healthcare team can provide hope and positivity in challenging times. Their encouragement and optimism can significantly impact your emotional well-being and outlook on your cancer journey.
10. Long-Term Relationship: Cancer care often extends beyond the immediate treatment phase, involving ongoing follow-up care and surveillance. By building a strong, trusting relationship with your healthcare team, you can make the long-term aspects of your care more manageable.
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