What Now?
You have heard the dreaded word "cancer" or you are worried that you might have cancer. What do you do? Where do you go?
What should I do?
The best choice for treatment depends on your desires, values, goals and personal risk-taking preferences.
For some people, the right choice is treatment with a goal of cure no matter the chance for cure (as long as there is some chance) and no matter the risks and costs of treatment. For others, cure is not the best route because the chance for cure is very low, and the price (discomfort, travel, expense, risk of death or complications) is too great. You may decide that your best choice at this time is taking a treatment that controls your cancer without curing it.
Doctors can provide some statistical data for each treatment option regarding your chances of remission, cure, complications, side effects and death. Doctors and nurses can give you some concept of what the experience of treatment will be like. Patients who have been through similar treatments can give you closer insight into the experience. Doctors or nurses usually can refer you to patients willing to share their experiences and advice.
You may feel unsure about your treatment choice despite having given it your best effort. Take comfort in the knowledge that you and your physicians are making the wisest decision you can at this time. Once the final decision has been made and you have started treatment, do not look back. Devote your energy toward your treatment.
Ask questions, listen and learn.