Facing the Challenge
A formidable challenge
While we have turned the corner in the battle against many cancers, it is still a serious and complex condition. After all, cancer isn't one disease, but many different diseases which can affect people in many different ways.
There are many different types of treatment for cancer, and no single course of treatment is right for everyone. That’s why it’s necessary to design a treatment program that is tailored to your specific needs. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for you.
Many resources, many options
If you are confronting cancer and trying to understand what to do, the question you might be asking yourself is, “Where to do I begin?”
The best place to start is with your Commonwealth physician. He or she is a specialist in oncology (the treatment of cancer) and/or hematology (the treatment of blood diseases). Your doctor, nurse practitioner and our specially trained nurses will take the time to discuss your specific illness and treatment options. They will also direct you to appropriate educational materials and support groups.
Beyond that, it is important to empower yourself by learning about your disease and taking an active role in your care. There are many books and publications you can use to help educate yourself about cancer and coping with the impact it can have on you and your family. There are also many online resources that offer advice on coping and facts about cancer.