Welcome to OCF! You have found the right place to get info and support. Dont worry, we have been where you are and understand exactly what you are going thru. I suggest reading both here and on the main OCF site. An informed patient is a patient who is in control and can better advocate for themselves.

I suggest speaking up at your next appointment and asking what your treatment facility offers to help you cope with your cancer diagnosis. It is definitely a very scary time. On the main OCF site I found all kinds of tips to help patients learn hope to better deal with the mental aspects of cancer. They should have a counselor or therapist who you can talk with, or at least they can point you in the right direction. Ive included the link at the end of this post.

Stress will cause all kinds of negative problems for patients. Do your very best to limit the time you spend thinking about cancer and try to avoid the "what if's" as much as possible. Your weight loss is probably due to the amount of stress your recent diagnosis has caused you. Now is the time to eat all your favorite foods and have desserts too. If you're on the slim side then yes you need to gain a few pounds before going into any treatments. Go for full fat, highest calorie everything. Milkshakes have alot of calories, add half and half to your coffee or hot chocolate, drink chocolate milk (400 calories a pint), ice cream, pasta, cheesecake, all are high calorie options you can try.

Avoiding Dr Google will help shield you from all the false cures unscrupulous people try selling to sick people. I find it absolutely disgusting anyone who intentionally attempts to profit from taking advantage of others who are at low points in their lives. By constantly checking your mouth, you will start to notice all kinds of teeny tiny things which probably are not even related to the cancer. Our minds have a way of playing tricks on us when we are worried. This is probably another factor in your weight loss. When you find yourself dwelling on your situation or cancer or anything negative force yourself to limit the amount of time to ponder it then physically get up and "change the channel". By "change the channel" I mean to go do something positive instead of thinking about all the negatives. Give yourself 5 minutes then go clean out your closet, vacuum, or other chores that keep you busy. Start a new hobby, read books that hold your interest or workout, just do things that are positive and productive which should help you feel a little better.

Hang in there! I know its not easy but you can get thru this. Being young is a huge advantage and will help you bounce back quicker than someone older. Stop by often to read, post, vent, etc. We're here and will help you get thru this.

Best wishes!!!


Main OCF Site... Coping