Hi, Wendy.

Welcome to the forums! Christine couldn't have said it better in her post.

Any cancer diagnosis is terrifying, but especially the one that you and so many of us others got. It is life-changing, but as "bwb" mentioned, her Mom is doing pretty well now.

I wish you all the best in these extremely difficult times. You will be in my thoughts.

Do you have someone who is able to be a caregiver? You will need to lean on those who are willing to show up for you. Some people have a hard time asking for and accepting help. Now is the time to let that go. The more you have set up prior to your surgery, the better and more smoothly things will be when you come home.

One thing that really helped me was to bring a large notebook and take it with you to all of your appointments...all of them. I used a 5-subject notebook and used the divided sections for different specialties...surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, medication logs, and "other" such as subspecialties like speech & nutrition.

That notebook was the only thing that gave me a sense of control in my situation. Also, if someone can accompany you to your appointments and take notes in the book and be a second pair of ears, that is helpful.

I would think of questions between visits and immediately write them down as I would tend to forget them later. At each appointment, I had a list of questions and my doctor got used to this routine. First, he would examine me and then we would look a the questions together. That way all of my concerns were addressed efficiently. In the beginning, when I was really ill, my husband would do the asking and taking notes for me. Then I was able to do it.

Stick with us and we will hold your hand through this process. Everyone needs help, advice, and comforting reassurance during this time and many times after...this is your first step in continuing to be the strong woman that you are!

Love in OCF,
Kerri