If you’re reading this, you’ve received the difficult news that
you might have either a blood disorder or cancer. Your doctor has referred
you to Oregon Hematology Oncology Associates, P.C. (OHOA) to see either an
oncologist--a physician who treats cancer--or a hematologist--a physician
who treats blood disorders.
We understand some of the emotions you’re feeling right now, and we
want you to know that our entire reason for existence is to face this challenge
with you.
While some of the information on this web site applies to the treatment
of blood disorders, most of what we’ll be talking about in this section
is related to cancer treatment. In some cases you can substitute the word “hematologist” for
the word “oncologist.” But if you’re a hematology patient,
your hematologist will describe the treatment process to you and answer any
of your questions at any time.
If you’ve been referred for a blood disorder, please visit our Hematology section.
In either case, the next step is for you to make an appointment with a physician at
one of our local offices --the sooner the better.
Your first visit to OHOA is a great chance to get a feel for how
we work and to connect with the physician who will orchestrate your treatment.
OHOA’s approach to both cancer treatment and hematology is structured
much like an orchestra. It’s all about teamwork under strong leadership.
Your oncologist or hematologist is essentially the conductor of a group of
talented and highly-experienced individuals who are dedicated to fully identifying
your disease and creating the best possible treatment program. While we take
full advantage of today’s standard best practices, we also customize
your program to suit your particular situation.
Your first visit to OHOA is an important step in the diagnostic process.
As a cancer patient, you’ll sit down with one of our oncologists who
will spend a lot of time asking you questions. The more we know about you,
your current diagnosis, and other medical conditions, the better we’re
able to tailor a program of treatment and/or follow-up that’s right for you.
From this meeting and other detailed medical records, OHOA will build a
database of information to help steer your course of treatment. It’s
a good idea to bring along a trusted family member or friend to these first
meetings. It helps to have another set of ears in the room, and another voice
to ask questions.
Next,
your team may order additional tests to understand the stage of your cancer’s
progression and to further identify the specific cancer cells. Once all of
this has been narrowed down, your physician may point you toward additional
information about your particular cancer and the treatment strategy.
We want you to be an informed participant in the process, since knowledge
is indeed power. Along the way we’ll make sure you understand exactly
what we know, what will happen next, and why.
It’s easier to face life’s most difficult challenges as part
of a team rather than as an individual. That’s one reason for our team-based
approach to cancer treatment. It’s also why we encourage you to involve
as many friends and family members in your diagnosis and treatment process
as possible. We’d also be happy to recommend professionals who can
help both you and your family deal with the physical and emotional challenges
of facing cancer.
A Few Suggestions
I am the Patient
It’s common when you’ve been diagnosed with cancer to
experience depression after receiving the news. Many people equate
the word “cancer” with “terminal.” This is
just not accurate. Many cancers are highly treatable with a very good
recovery rate. In fact, many are potentially curable. But the idea
of facing cancer can be a shock.
One of the best ways to deal with feelings of depression is to stay
as active as possible. Physical exercise is a wonderful tonic—ask
your physician what kind of exercise is right for you. Some people
also find it helpful to research their cancer,
to understand both the disease and the methods of treatment.
On the other hand, some people feel much more comfortable doing anything
but thinking about their cancer. Instead they choose to focus on living
as normally as possible. It’s important for you to do whatever
feels right. This is all about you. You control your treatment and
how it affects your life.
If you decide to do some research, make sure you talk over your findings
with your physician and treatment team. Cancer and its treatment are
highly complex, and conversation with experts is the best
way to digest what you’re learning and to avoid any misunderstandings.
I am a Family Member
It’s possible your loved one will experience depression upon
receiving the preliminary diagnosis of cancer. Your family member will
probably need your help to cope with this. Watch for telltale signs,
like feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. Talk to members of
the treatment team or the patient’s primary care physician about
how to cope with these symptoms and where to find help.
Some patients also gain a sense of control by researching the specific
cancer and understanding the possible treatment methods. You and your
relative can learn more about the cancer diagnosis by searching the Internet
or visiting the library. Perhaps you can help set up a computer with
an Internet connection or arrange a visit to the library. But keep in mind,
sometimes research can be counterproductive. So much information is
readily accessible these days, it can be overwhelming and even discouraging.
Make sure you ask the physician for guidance about the best sources
of information.
I am a Friend
It’s possible your friend will experience depression upon receiving
the preliminary diagnosis of cancer. Your friend might need your help
to cope with this. Watch for telltale signs, like feelings of helplessness
and hopelessness. Encourage the patient to talk to members of the treatment
team or her primary care physician about how to cope with depression
and where to find help.
Some people also gain a sense of control by researching the specific
cancer and understanding the possible treatment methods. Your friend
can learn more about her cancer by searching the Internet or visiting
the library. Perhaps you can help set up a computer with an Internet
connection or arrange a visit to the library. But keep in mind, sometimes
research can be counterproductive. So much information is readily accessible
these days, it can be overwhelming and even discouraging. Your friend
should ask his physician and treatment team for guidance about the
best sources of information.
Don’t be afraid to encourage other friends to help out. At this
point many of them are anxious to do something, but they probably have
no idea what to do. You might have some suggestions, whether it’s
handling specific errands or just spending some time with your friend.
©2003 Oregon Hematology Oncology Associates, P.C., Inc. All rights reserved.
This site is for educational purposes only and is intended for your general
knowledge. It should not be used as a substitute for advice from your physician
or other healthcare professional.
