In The Human Side of Cancer, Jimmie C. Holland, M.D., of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, explores the broad range of emotions people with cancer and their loved ones experience from the moment of diagnosis through the treatment and its aftermath.

What YOU Can Do to Ensure Good Communication Between You and the Doctor

1. Before the visit, identify the main problem.

2. Keep a medical notebook.

3. Decide how much information you want about your illness.

4. Consider having someone come along with you to the medical visits.

5. Express all your concerns without feeling inhibited for any reason.

6. Write down your questions.

7. Get a second opinion.

8. Get information on the web.

Factors That Can Help You Cope

1. Being a person who is . . .

• Generally positive toward life
• Able to take one day at a time
• Optimistic and unlikely by nature to feel helpless during a crisis
• Able to meet a challenge (like treatment) head-on
• Not prone to become highly stressed in the face of challenges (treatment)
• Able to commit to a goal and "hang in" (fighting spirit)
• Able to see the humorous side of negative things (dark humor)
  

2. Having enough information about the treatment, its goals, and possible side effects

3. Having a caring medical team that is supportive and reassuring

4. Having a caring nurse who can interpret the doctor's communications

5. Having support from others (family, friends)

6. Having a belief system or philosophy of life that gives meaning to stressful situations

7. Seeking counseling to change behaviors or ways of coping that are counterproductive (see Resources locate a support program)