A cancer diagnosis can feel like the earth shifting beneath a patient’s feet—a moment that divides life into a clear “before” and “after.” For many, the initial shock can be overwhelming, leaving little room to process the flood of emotions, information, and decisions that follow. But in the midst of this turmoil, there’s a path forward, paved with knowledge, support, and empowerment. Whether your patient is newly diagnosed or they are supporting a loved one through this journey, here are some essential pearls to offer as they begin navigating this challenging road.
Building a Support System: The Anchor in the Storm
The first step after a diagnosis is to identify a support system. This will be a network of people who will stand by the patient, lift them up, and help shoulder the burden. This isn’t just about having a shoulder to cry on, although emotional support is crucial. It’s about assembling a team that can help make sense of the medical jargon, manage the logistics of your care, and provide practical assistance. Without this anchor, navigating the turbulent waters of a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming and isolating.
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 32, I found myself in a place of profound loneliness. There was a lack of support, and the devastating nature of the diagnosis left me feeling as though I were drifting in a sea of uncertainty without a lifeline. It was from this place of vulnerability that the seed for the Tigerlily Foundation was planted. I realized that no one should have to go through this journey alone; that everyone deserves to have a support system to help them find their way.
Assembling that support system starts with identifying the people who are reliable, compassionate, and capable of offering both emotional and practical support. This might include a spouse, a close friend, a family member, or even a trusted coworker. It’s important to communicate openly about what your patient needs.
Consider setting up a communication plan, such as a group chat or a shared calendar, to keep everyone, including the patient care team, informed and organized. This not only helps you manage the logistics of care but also allows the patient’s support system to coordinate among themselves, sharing the load so no one person feels overburdened. For instance, one person might take charge of coordinating transportation to appointments, while another might help with meal preparation or managing medical bills.
It’s also important to acknowledge that support systems can and should extend beyond the patient’s immediate circle. Professional support, such as therapists, social workers, and patient navigators, can provide specialized guidance that friends and family may not be equipped to offer. These professionals can help patients cope with the emotional toll of diagnosis, navigate the healthcare system, and connect you with resources that might otherwise be out of reach.
Today, Tigerlily is more than just an organization; it’s a community—a place where women can find the support, resources, and empowerment they need to navigate their diagnosis with strength and resilience.
The patient’s support system is their anchor in the storm. Encourage your patient to lean on their support system, trust in it, and let it carry them when they need it most. Encourage the patient to remember, they don’t have to do this alone, and there is no shame in asking for help.
Educating Your Patient With Reliable Resources: Knowledge Is Power
One of the most empowering things a patient can do after a diagnosis is to educate themselves, and you as their care provider are an excellent resource. Cancer is a deeply personal journey, and the decisions made along the way will be shaped by the knowledge acquired. However, the sheer volume of information available, some of it conflicting or even misleading, can be confusing. That’s why it’s crucial to rely on credible, scientifically backed sources. Start by pointing patients to established organizations like the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, and the Tigerlily Foundation. These organizations offer a wealth of resources, ranging from detailed explanations of different types of cancer to the latest treatment options and clinical trial opportunities. They provide reliable, up-to-date information that can help demystify the complexities of cancer care, making it easier for you to navigate your journey with clarity and confidence.
But education doesn’t end there. Provide patients with a list of recommended resources specific to their type of cancer. These might include books, reputable websites, and patient advocacy groups that offer support and information tailored to their needs. For example, some advocacy groups focus on the experiences of specific communities, such as young women, people of color, or those seeking holistic approaches to treatment. These resources can provide insights that resonate with their unique circumstances, offering not just information but also a sense of connection and community.
It’s also vital to communicate with your patient about what is important for their healthcare. If having a physician who shares their cultural background or who specializes in holistic care is a priority for them, that will influence their treatment success. Encourage patients to reach out to the healthcare team with any questions or concerns. Whether it is clarification on a test result, more information about a treatment option, or simply reassurance, make sure the patient knows the care team is there to help. Make sure they know you are their partners in this journey, and that your goal is to ensure that you have the knowledge and support you need to make the best decisions for your health.
At the Tigerlily Foundation, we believe that knowledge is power. We have a number of resources on our website, including toolkits to help patients navigate challenges and address lifestyle changes. These can be found at https://tigerlilyfoundation.org/barrier-toolkits/. With the right resources and support, your patient can navigate your diagnosis with confidence, clarity, and strength.
The Importance of Second Opinions: Exploring Every Option
A second opinion is more than just a reassurance, it’s a vital step in ensuring that the patient has explored every possible treatment option. While you may have recommended a treatment plan, consulting with another specialist can provide your patient with a different perspective, confirm your diagnosis, or introduce alternative therapies that you may not have considered.
A second opinion can also be particularly important if your patient is facing a rare cancer, a complicated case, or if you’re uncertain about the recommended treatment plan.
Remember, a second opinion is not a sign of mistrust, but rather a tool for empowerment. It’s about making sure that every treatment recommendation you make is based on the most comprehensive understanding of the condition and the available treatment options.
Asking the Right Questions: Discuss Biomarker Testing and Encourage Clinical Trials
In the age of personalized medicine, it’s critical to understand how the specific cancer behaves at a molecular level. This is where biomarker testing comes in. Biomarker testing can reveal specific genes, proteins, or other molecules that are unique to your patient’s cancer, helping the healthcare team tailor a treatment plan that targets a cancer’s specific characteristics.
When you meet with your patient, make it a priority to discuss biomarker testing. Ask about which biomarkers are relevant to their type of cancer, what the results mean, and how they could influence treatment options. This conversation can open doors to targeted therapies that may be more effective than standard treatments.
Facing a cancer diagnosis is one of life’s greatest challenges, but it is also a journey that can be navigated with hope, resilience, and empowerment.
Also, encourage participation in clinical trials. Clinical trials are no longer just a last resort; they are an essential component of modern cancer care. Oncology Practice Management runs a section every month that can serve as a resource for these. These trials offer access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet widely available and could be a better fit for your specific cancer. Encourage your patient to inquire about any clinical trials they might be eligible for, and what the potential benefits and risks are. Participating in a clinical trial can be a powerful way to contribute to the future of cancer treatment while potentially gaining access to innovative therapies.
Moving Forward With Hope
Facing a cancer diagnosis is one of life’s greatest challenges, but it is also a journey that can be navigated with hope, resilience, and empowerment. By building a strong support system, educating your patient with reliable information, seeking second opinions, and asking informed questions about biomarker testing and clinical trials, you can empower your patient to take control of their journey.
About the Author
Maimah Karmo is the founder of Tigerlily Foundation, a breast cancer survivor, and an advisory board member of Oncology Practice Management's sister publication, Conquer.