Cancer ! In the medical field, the word stands for a 'malignancy' or 'tumor' - an uncontrolled growth of cells. From his experience and interactions with patients and their families at Duke University and previously at University of North Dakota, Dr. Anil Potti believes that the word "cancer" affects patients at multiple levels and is extremely debilitating to families, both emotionally and physically.
Cancer affects not only the individual patient but everyone around them - friends, relatives and most of all their immediate family. While there are currently many resources for cancer patients, there is also a feeling that there might not be enough. Dr. Potti hopes that the information here and the links provided are useful to patients and their families as they undertake this journey.
A few general principles that Dr. Potti believes in and hopes will help patients and their families:
NOT all cancers are the same. Many are curable.
NEVER shy away from a second opinion. Most oncologists encourage that, so, please don't worry that you might offend anyone.
GET involved and take control of the plan (or designate a family member).
TAKE notes. It may be wise to even take a handheld recorder so that you and your family can better understand everything.
TRY to lean on your friends and family at all times - distancing yourself from your loved ones usually does not help.
THIS is a battle, but you WILL have the support you need.
PREPARE yourself - emotionally, physically and nutritionally. That is in your control.
LISTEN to Jimmy V's ESPY speech (March 1993) again and again. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuoVM9nm42E
REMEMBER, Positive things happen to positive thinkers !
MOST IMPORTANTLY, HAVE Faith ! Even in the worst scenarios, Miracles do happen.
For additional information, go to www.dranilpotti.com
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