Sorry for your diagnosis, Audrey, but welcome. Everyone is different in how they cope. Some need a game plan by writing out what needs to be done in preparation for, during and after surgery, not only medically, but with transportation, pets, mail, supplies, financially, meals, emotional support, etc. Then think how are you are going to do it, and what help do you need to do it. Some tasks need to be assigned or referred to others like family members, friends, and even volunteer organizations, church or the hospital. If not already, you probably will be treated by multidisciplinary team of doctors, such as ENT, RO, possibly MO, Speech and swallow therapist, pain Management, Nutritionist, Social Worker, and others who will also help, and have their own dates of appointments, suggestions, and their own care, and plan.

It also helps keeping busy. Some blog about their illness, research their illness to reduce fears, help understand it, and what is likely or less likely to occur, exercise, reading. This site helps knowing others have walked in your shoes, and can search other posts or post your own for discussion.

Waiting is the worst part, but good luck with everything.