What To Do After A Cancer Diagnosis

“You have cancer.”

Those are three words that can alter plans, shift mindsets and bring worry, fear and concern. It’s understandable that individuals hearing those words – and the loved ones by their side – suddenly feel overwhelmed and out of control.

The first step is to take a deep breath. It’s a small thing, but it’s one that can help slow your heart rate and help you focus on the information being shared and the next steps to take.

“It’s a very big change in your life to learn that you or a loved one has cancer,” said Shuai Qin, MD, medical oncologist at Franciscan Health Cancer Center Munster. “We try to explain their diagnosis clearly, but, often, these patients are in shock learning their diagnosis. We understand that and we encourage them to spend time learning about their disease and let us know what questions they have.”

Consider these three steps if you’ve been recently diagnosed with cancer and aren’t sure what to do next.

1. Research Your Cancer Diagnosis

There are more than 100 types of cancer. Even cancers that share a name – like breast cancer – can vary widely in treatments, approaches and outcomes based on the type of cancer you have. Dr. Qin recommends patients find reputable sources to research their specific disease, including type and staging. Those sources start with your oncologist and care team and Cancer.Net, a website from the American Society of Clinical Oncologist (ASCO). Your oncologist may also recommend other websites specific to your condition.

“It’s important to get information that is relevant to your condition. Not everything online about breast cancer, prostate cancer or other cancers will be applicable to your diagnosis,” said Dr. Qin.

2. Gather Your Questions

As you research your diagnosis, be sure to write down questions you have. This list will help guide the next conversation you have with your oncologist. Dr. Qin shared these commonly asked questions and her responses:

Should I eat differently? 

“It’s not proven in research that nutrition can change the outcome,” she said. “There are certain cancers in which obesity is associated with adverse outcomes. It’s important to stay active, eat healthy and minimize fatty oils and food.”

Can I take a supplement? 

“Some supplements contain antioxidants or high doses of certain vitamins that can interfere with some cancer treatments, including chemotherapy,” Dr. Qin said. “One daily multivitamin is probably okay, but check with your doctor first.”

Should I get a second opinion? 

“We often encourage and welcome a second opinion among any patient that wants one,” she said. “We are happy to help facilitate that or talk to another oncologist.”

Can I be around loved ones after chemotherapy? 

“Chemotherapy is in body fluids for about 24 to 72 hours after treatment,” Dr. Qin said. “We recommend family members use separate bathrooms and take a few precautionary steps to help avoid exposing loved ones to cancer drugs.”

Is it safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine?

“Yes, it is safe to get the vaccine. If it’s safe to get the flu shot, it’s safe to get the COVID vaccine,” she said. “There are some instances where you may want to wait a few months – such as coming off a bone marrow transplant or if you currently have low blood counts. Your oncologist can help determine when it’s safe for you to be vaccinated.”

3. Plan Ahead

Cancer treatments can be physically, emotionally and mentally draining. Plan for big things and little things to help make your experience a little bit smoother. Dr. Qin encourages her patients to:

• Talk to a trusted friend or family member. You’ll want someone in your corner that you can be honest and open with – no judgment or fear of what they’re thinking.
• Consider advance directives. An advance directive identifies a person that can make decisions for you should you become unable to speak for yourself. It gives you an opportunity to discuss what you want to be done in certain situations and better understand the risks and benefits without emotions running as high. It also helps your families make better decisions.
• Plan for support. Think about what you want support to look like. Some people like to be surrounded by family and friends while others prefer to only have one or two support people. The Franciscan Health Cancer Center has many different supports available, but we recognize and respect that everyone has different coping strategies.
• Schedule necessary appointments. Talk your oncologist about any medical or dental appointments you may need to complete before starting treatments. For example, some individuals may need to have a dental exam before chemotherapy begins.

The most important piece of advice from Dr. Qin is to try to carry on with your life.

“The future is unpredictable, whether or not you have cancer,” she said. “Go to that concert. Attend that wedding. Enjoy what you can, when you can.”