Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) Joined: Nov 2002 Posts: 3,552 | Hi Jennie and welcome to the forum. 32 is a young age to go through this and it is a nightmare. There is hope however and don't lose sight of that. First you MUST go to a Comprehensive Cancer Center if you are not already. There is a list of them in the resorurces part of the site.
I was a primary caregiver for my father who had lymphoma so I have walked in thoes shoes as well. It is, in many ways, far more more difficult to be a caregiver than a patient so take good care of yourself. Eat well and get lots of rest. If you are emotionally overwhelmed ask the doctor for some anti-anxiety medications. There are also support groups for caregivers. Start building up a list of people who can assist with driving, respite care, etc. Church groups are very good at those sort of things.
Go to all of the doctor visits and take VERY careful notes. Much information will be given in a short amounbt of time and many decisions will have to be made quickly. It is vital to be your own advocate. You want to know what all of your options are and the risks and benefits of each. We are here to help you in any way we can.
The hospital social worker should be able to help with your benefits and entitlements as far as the financial aspect of it goes. You will be entitled to substantial discounts for gas, electric and lifeline telephone rates. Estate planning and advanced directives are always a good idea at any age.
It is natural to be overwhelmed, especially at the beginning before all of the diagnostic information, testing and treatment planning is finalized. Take a deep breath and keep us informed so we can help.
Gary Allsebrook *********************************** Dx 11/22/02, SCC, 6 x 3 cm Polypoid tumor, rt tonsil, Stage III/IVA, T3N0M0 G1/2 Tx 1/28/03 - 3/19/03, Cisplatin ct x2, IMRT, bilateral, with boost, x35(69.96Gy) ________________________________________________________ "You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14 NIV)
|