5. Everyone’s experience with cancer will not be the same.
No two people will have the same experience. There are options in the treatment of cancer. The patient needs to make an informed decision on the option that is chosen. One patient may have a lumpectomy; another may have a mastectomy. One patient may have radiation; one may need chemotherapy and radiation. Some may need a combination of the treatments mentioned or no treatment at all (which is the best case scenario!) Your course of treatment is your medical footprint in your life. Don’t state what is to be expected; simply offer to discuss your course of action.
A recently diagnosed person is scared and confused. He/she is discussing their health with doctors, family members, friends and well wishers. You see where I am going with these lines of communication? You could potentially confuse the person and instill more fear than necessary.
Answer questions when asked but too much advice may be comprehension overload.
Readers, please understand that I am not bashing your well intentions, just offering thoughts from the mind of a survivor.
trevajeanice 