Power of Support During Cancer
- Donna Gregory, a longtime North Carolina news anchor, revealed she’s been diagnosed with cancer and will need time off to undergo treatment. As supportive fans and colleagues shower her with positivity, Gregory says she’s most focused on her children’s ability to cope with her diagnosis.
- Research published in The Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine studied the psychological impact of disease on family members. It found that “Most chronic diseases have similar effects on family members [as they do on the patient], including psychological and emotional functioning, disruption of leisure activities, effect on interpersonal relationships, and financial resources.”
- To help you cope with an unexpected diagnosis, invite your close family and friends for added support. Also, consider adding a therapist to your support group to help process your thoughts and feelings.
- Staying positive during cancer treatment can help you achieve better health outcomes. So, it’s important to prioritize your mental health, whether that means continuing to work, taking up a new hobby, or making time for friends.
Since these symptoms can stem from more benign conditions, the veteran news anchor was not expecting cancer to be the source of her pains.
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However, tests revealed she had cancer in her tissue samples.
“It felt like a horse kick to the stomach, a sucker punch from some unseen and sinister opponent,” Gregory described.
In the wake of her diagnosis, she worried about her loved ones — family, friends, and coworkers alike.
“I stopped hearing the words and only saw the images of the faces of the people I love: my children, grandchildren, siblings, extended family, friends, and coworkers,” she explained.
Gregory leaned on her loved ones to build added support.
“A friend reminded me that the word ‘cancer’ starts with ‘can,’ and I have always believed in possibilities, living in hope and formed by faith. I will rely on that now more than ever,” Gregory said.
Gregory plans to take time away from reporting the news to undergo treatment.
Fans flooded Gregory’s Facebook page, offering support and encouragement.
“You’ve got this, Donna. Your positive attitude is just what you need. I’ll be praying for you and your family,” Facebook user Ron MacGillivary commented.
Helping Patients Cope with a Cancer Diagnosis
“Sending love and prayers for a successful outcome in your treatment for cancer. Keep the faith and believe what your friend told you about the first 3 letters in cancer. You CAN do this and will. God be with you every step of the way,” Facebook user Bet See Jayn commented.
Although she did not reveal the type of cancer she was diagnosed with, she highlighted the impact a diagnosis could have on her and her loved ones.
“I am mostly concerned about my children and their mental health during this transition time for our family,” she added.
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Health Challenges Can Impact the Entire Family
Research published in The Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine studied the impact of disease on family members. It was found that: “Most chronic diseases have similar effects on family members [as they do on the patient], including psychological and emotional functioning, disruption of leisure activities, effect on interpersonal relationships, and financial resources.”
Feelings of “helplessness, lack of control, anger, embarrassment” are some common emotions parents, siblings, and other relatives within the household of someone battling a health condition may experience, according to researchers.
Other ways a disease, for example, may impact the lives of family members include:
- Affecting sleep
- Concerns about medical treatment
- Altered food choices
- Using religion, spiritual, and cultural beliefs to cope
- Concerns about understanding the disease or illness
- Needing support from others
- Limited freedom
- Worrying about the death of a loved one
Our experts agree that forming a strong support system can help everyone in the family cope with the challenges a diagnosis can bring. These situations can be opportunities to strengthen families and bring them closer together.
WATCH: How to talk to your children about your diagnosis.
Maintaining High Spirits During Treatment
If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, remember that your life does not have to come to a complete stop. You can and should continue doing things that keep your emotional health in a positive space.
According to SurvivorNet experts, prioritizing your overall well-being and continuing to do the things you love can be very beneficial because it can positively influence your treatment outcomes.
WATCH: Find Moments of Joy During Treatment
“We know from good studies that emotional health is associated with survival, meaning better quality of life is associated with better outcomes,” Dr. Dana Chase, a gynecological oncologist at Arizona Center for Cancer Care, tells SurvivorNet.
Tips to Cope with an Unexpected Diagnosis
Facing a new cancer diagnosis can be stressful and scary — but it’s important to remember that you are not alone and there are may directions you can turn in for support. Experts recommend the following:
- Let your family and close friends know and let them help. So many cancer survivors tell us they want and need support but are often too preoccupied to make specific requests. Urge those close to you to jump in with whatever practical help they can offer.
- Keep a journal. It can be highly cathartic to let those feelings loose on paper. Grab a pen and a lovely journal and chronicle your thoughts throughout the day.
Join a cancer support group. Groups in nearly every community offer opportunities to connect with others going through a similar journey. You’ll learn constructive insight from others who can tell you what to expect and how to stay strong on tough days. - Consider seeing a therapist. Ask your doctor to refer you to a therapist so you can discuss your fears and concerns in a safe space. Often, vocalizing your thoughts and feelings rather than internalizing them can provide relief.
WATCH: Managing your mental health after a diagnosis.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
When faced with a cancer diagnosis, it’s crucial to ask your doctor informed questions to understand your condition, treatment options, and coping strategies. These questions can serve as a starting point for your discussion with your doctor so you can feel empowered and informed as you navigate your cancer journey.
- What type and stage of cancer do I have, and what does this mean for my prognosis?
- What treatment options are available, and what are the potential benefits and risks?
- How will the proposed treatment plan impact my daily life, including work, family, and social activities?
- Are there any clinical trials or experimental treatments I may be eligible for?
- How can I manage treatment side effects and maintain my overall well-being during treatment?
- How will my cancer diagnosis and treatment affect my emotional health, and what support resources are available to help me cope?
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