WINGS Cancer Survivorship Program
Survivorship articles
Honoring National Wise Health Consumer Month
“From the time of diagnosis on, knowledge can help you let go of worry and focus on living”- Wendy Schlessel, MD, Cancer Survivor, in Happiness in a Storm
It is said that a wise health consumer is a physically and emotionally healthy consumer. This sentiment may especially ring true if a life threatening illness, such a cancer, has become an unwelcome intruder in your life. If you or a loved one is living with or beyond a cancer diagnosis, you are not alone. It is estimated that cancer impacts the lives of one in three people in our country.
The National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS) states that, “To paraphrase the Taoist philosopher Lao-Tzu, every journey begins with a single step. Cancer becomes a much lesser foe when faced by an individual who is informed and knowledgeable and who knows how to communicate their needs to those who can be helpful to them as they experience cancer– to lessen the fear, dispel the myths, and reduce the anxiety, so that you can make the best decisions about your survivorship.”
An important first step toward being a wise health consumer is considering incorporating some of the “Teamwork Tools” NCCS recommends to help with understanding and remembering important conversations with health care providers:
- Take a family member or friend with you. This person should have a wise listening ear, the ability to give emotional support, and the ability to think and remember objectively.
- Take notes during the visit. Take the time you need to make sure they’ll make sense when you get home.
- Visualize what is being said to you. It may help to see an illustration of what is being explained.
- Ask for explanations in terms you understand. It’s an important part of being an effective partner in your care.
- Repeat back a summary of what you heard. This gives your care provider an opportunity to clear up any communication gaps.
- Ask how you can learn more. Perhaps a helpful pamphlet, class or other reputable resource is available.
A new “Healthy Survivorship Series,” co-sponsored by Marshfield Clinic Cancer Care, offers courses in a relaxed, informal environment. These classes are for anyone touched by cancer, their family members and caregivers who would like to enhance their quality of life through programs that complement medical care and foster balance of mind, body and spirit. Classes will be held Tuesdays, February19th through March11th from11:30AM-1:30PM at Hope Lodge, 611 W. Doege St., Marshfield. Topics include; The Art of Stress Hardy Survivorship; Guided Imagery and Music Therapy Techniques; Tai Chi Easy™; and Cancer Path and Spiritual Journey. Class fee is $6 per class or $19 for the four class series. Scholarships are available. For more information or to register please call UW/Marshfield Wood County at (715) 389-6520.
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