Hi Philip,

The time before treatment starts can be the most stressful. It's difficult waiting for things to start happening and your thoughts include the fears of cancer as well as those of the treatments. Everyone reacts differently to the treatments and some do much better than others. Personally, I handled the treatments fairly well by comparison to many. The fact that you are in good shape is a definite plus and you might try concentrating on getting yourself in better shape before you start. Whatever your routine is, kick it up a couple of notches. Then you are doing something "proactively " to help you through the treatments instead of just sitting around waiting for it to happen.

Finding a live support group prior to treatments can also be very helpful. Your hospital or cancer center should be able to point you in the right direction. They should also have social workers available as well as therapists and psychologists. All you have to do is ask. Most cancer centers take the emotional side of this disease as seriously as the physical part. Just let your doctor(s) know you are having problems. If you were preparing for a case you would utilize every expert witness you needed to win. Do the same thing for yourself.

I know you have heard it before but just keep a positive outlook. Positive thoughts lead to positive outcomes. The treatments are difficult but they are "doable." You have a lot of good things going for you and I know your going to be fine.

Ed
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