Making each day count living with cancer

Suggestions for Making Each Day Count

“Orville Kelly was diagnosed with lymphoma in his early forties. One day when he was sitting in his doctor’s waiting room, he thought to himself that he should start making better use of his time, since he did not know how long he may live with his cancer. He started talking about ideas of positive thinking to other patients in the waiting room and they formed a small support group. As a result of this experience, Orville founded the organization, Make Today Count, with the simple purpose of bringing together people who are learning to live with cancer. The following are suggestions for making each day count:

Talk About It

Those around you may be unsure about what they can do. If they ask, take the opportunity to let them know how they can help you during this time.
Tell your doctors that you want to participate in your care and know what is going on with your health.
You may meet people who think they can catch cancer by being near you. Share with them what you know about cancer, so they will not be afraid.

Family and Friends

Chances are your family and friends will cope better if they are told the truth. Patients sometimes try to protect their loved ones by pretending everything is alright. If loved ones are aware of your diagnosis they can better respond to your need for understanding.
You may have unexpected feelings about your diagnosis such as sadness, grief, denial or anger. These are normal reactions to being ill. Loved ones are also trying to cope with the diagnosis and may have the same feelings.
If you live alone, there are things you can do to be with others. You may want to join a support group to talk with others who are living with cancer.
Your friends may not know what to do or say. They may be afraid they will upset you or your family by saying the wrong thing. You can help to put them at ease by letting them know how you feel.”