Take a breath. You do not have to figure all of this out today, and you do not have to do it alone.
Hearing the word cancer can make the whole world go quiet. Whatever you are feeling right now is allowed. This page is short on purpose.
A few gentle next steps
- Write your questions down as they come. Keep a note on your phone or a notebook in your bag. Appointments move fast.
- Bring someone with you. A second set of ears can listen, take notes and ask what you forget to ask.
- Ask whether your care team has a nurse navigator. Many hospitals have someone whose job is to help you understand the path ahead.
- Let people help. A ride, a meal or an hour of company counts. Say yes when you can.
Questions you might bring to your next appointment
You do not need to ask them all. Pick the ones that matter to you, and ask your care team to write the answers down.
- What exactly is my diagnosis? Ask for the name, the stage if it is known and a copy of the report.
- What are my options, and what happens next? Ask what the next test or appointment is and when.
- Who do I call with questions? Get a name and a phone number for the days between visits.
- Is there a nurse navigator or social worker who can help? They can help with scheduling, rides and paperwork.
What we can and cannot do
What Rilassati offers today
- Women who have walked this road and understand
- Connection before, during and after treatment
- Winners For Life gatherings
What we are not
- We are not your doctors, and we do not give medical advice
- Questions about your diagnosis or treatment belong with your care team
If you need to talk to someone right now, at any hour, the American Cancer Society helpline is there.
1.800.227.2345American Cancer Society, 24 hours a day
Ask someone from Rilassati to reach out
Leave a first name and a way to reach you. You do not need to tell us anything about your diagnosis.
