When Cancer First Came Into Our Lives

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Being told your loved one has cancer can turn your world upside down.  You may feel a range of emotions, including confusion.  Here are some carers’ thoughts on how they felt when their loved one received a cancer diagnosis and how they coped.

-          Top thoughts for coping with a cancer diagnosis:

• You may feel confused. Take time to digest the information
• Ask for and accept support (from family, friends and professionals)
• Ask questions (and keep asking until you understand)
• Take notes or record (with permission)

-          Useful Links:

• Impact of diagnosis on the family: https://canceraustralia.gov.au/affected-cancer/living-cancer/managing-emotional-changes/impact-diagnosis-family-and-friends
• Coping with a cancer diagnosis: http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/cancer/Pages/coping-with-cancer-diagnosis.aspx
• Adjusting to a diagnosis: https://cancerfocusni.org/patient-support/counselling/
• Tips for dealing with a diagnosis: http://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/guide/tips-help-family-friends
• Emotional changes after diagnosis: https://canceraustralia.gov.au/affected-cancer/living-cancer/managing-emotional-changes/after-diagnosis
• Find help in your area: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/in-your-area/choose-location.html