03/27/2024
I'm taking a writing class with the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society. This week they asked us to give advice to the newly diagnosed.
I wonder if my words can be passed on to someone actually newly diagnosed...
Advice for the newly diagnosed.
My Dr said to stay away from google, great advice!
My Dr. said to let him worry about my disease and for me to do the living.. thankful for this advice.
Take time to relax and breathe.
EVERYONE will have advice for you, it will become overwhelming, just smile and say, "I will take that into consideration" but please don't try to take everyone's advice. You'll lose your mental health.
This is YOUR cancer
This is YOUR journey
myself, I needed stories of hope.... I couldn't bear the sad stories.
If your hospital offers you extras, like massages or what not, TAKE THEM! 🙂
Accept help.
Ask for help when you need it.
Cancer taught this self-sufficient lady how to ask for a help (Bonus!)
So "No thank you" if you're getting unsolicited advice (and don't want it)
Don't forget to have fun, I played music in the hospital... the nurses loved it. You know you can cheer the nurses and others up? (If you want to, no pressure)
Dress in color, you're still alive!!!
Make every day count.
Don't catastrophize! (I'm so good at that)
Don't let anyone make you feel guilty for having caused it. I know a lot of healthy people who've gotten cancer, healthy people who ate great, were at a perfect weight... etc... even children that have gotten cancer. Sometimes it just is what it is. Be gentle with yourself.
drink a lot of water anytime you're heading in to get an IV or blood draws, being hydrated helps!
Bring a loved one to your appts, it really helps to have someone take notes. We cant remember everything, sometimes we zone out and find ourselves elsewhere, while the Dr is talking.
Forgive yourself for whatever, this isn't a time for self-abuse xoxox
Be kind to you.
I love you.
You're loved.
you aren't alone.
you've just joined a club.
you may not have ever wanted to join this club, but you're a member now.
I pray you find love, support and a community.
if you can't find what you need, don't give up.
never give up hope...
you're important.
you're worthy.
you're alive because you're supposed to be xoxox
When you get through this, you can help someone else.
I believe in you.
Love, Jill Carlier in Leadville, Colorado
