Cancer - 1 - Diagnosis & Awareness

Possible Action Steps

Simply explain the individual’s type of cancer in one or two sentences ~ for example, Lung cancer starts when cells of the lung become abnormal and begin to grow out of control.
Review individual’s cancer stage, if known. Briefly explain cancer staging (the seriousness of cancer).
If appropriate, explain any unknown or confusing key words and terms related to individual’s specific type of cancer ~ for example, malignant, metastasize, biopsy, cancer cells, chemotherapy, prognosis, remission, tumor, etc.
Describe symptoms that are common for individual’s type of cancer. Which does individual currently have? Emphasize that it is okay (and in fact necessary) to bring these up with the doctor.
Explain to the individual that they might not have noticeable or bothersome symptoms related to their cancer. They may not “look” sick or feel bad. But, the cancer is still there and needs to be treated.
Together, review a compelling and realistic story about someone living with individual’s specific type of cancer. (Suggestion: ACS’ Stories of Hope)

Possible Action Steps

Explain that it is very normal to feel stressed and fearful about having cancer. Everyone feels anxious upon getting this diagnosis. Reassure individual that even though cancer is stressful, there are people who can help him or her through the journey.
Ask what individual’s biggest cancer-related fears or challenges are right now ~ confusion about which doctor to call, not being clear on what diagnosis means, not being able to fully explain diagnosis to family and friends, financial worries, etc.
Explain that the individual’s values and priorities matter in how they will deal with cancer. What is important to them? Emphasize that there may be “trade-offs” ~ greater likelihood of survival may require more aggressive treatments.
Discuss how much individual’s family and friends know about their cancer diagnosis. Overall, are loved ones providing support, or adding to individual’s stress?
Ask individual to identify one friend or family member who could help them by coming to their next doctor’s appointment to take notes, lend emotional support, and ask questions.
Together, problem-solve ways to address the biggest cancer-related challenge individual faces right now. Pick one way and try it out.

Possible Action Steps

Simply explain what is the doctor(s)’ job and what is the individual’s job in the cancer treatment process.
Discuss what the individual has done thus far to arrange for follow-up care after diagnosis. Clear up any misconceptions about what individual needs to do.
Together, write a step-by-step list of actions to take to arrange for follow-up care. Complete the first step together (for example, calling the oncologist for a follow-up appointment).
Together, write down individual’s questions for the doctor. At the next doctor's visit, have individual ask the doctor the questions or provide a written list of questions to the doctor.

Possible Action Steps

Talk about the importance of speaking up at each visit with a doctor ~ it’s necessary to provide information about symptoms, fears, and needs.
Find out what questions the individual would like to be able to ask his or her doctor. Encourage him or her to think about their values, priorities, and current cancer symptoms. Discuss individual’s comfort level asking these questions to their doctor.
Talk about ways to get prepared for each clinic appointment ~ prepare questions in advance; practice asking questions; ask a trusted friend or relative to attend the appointment and write down information, directions and answers to all questions.
Problem-solve ways to prepare for a doctor's visit. Role-play asking questions, repeating answers and taking written notes of all information provided.
Talk about the most recent visit to the doctor ~ were questions answered? Were the answers helpful? Did individual give doctor the information that individual thought was necessary?
Brainstorm ways that future visits to the doctor could be improved. What does the individual need to do differently? What does the doctor need to do differently?