The only mistake you can make is not asking for help.”  Sandeep Jauhar

What do you want to say to the people who are treating you for cancer?

What questions do you want to ask?

All too often we feel like we’re bothering our doctors with our thoughts and feelings.  We are afraid to take up too much space because we might be burdening them with “stupid” questions or taking up too much of their time with our troubles. There are numerous ways that we stop ourselves from advocating for what we need and want when at times our lives depend upon our questions and concerns being heard.  The danger in worrying about being too much for our providers is that we can lose track of  valuing ourselves.

Cancer can overwhelm our personal identity – as patients it can be a struggle to remember who we are as people with our unique histories, present moments … and futures. It can be difficult to remember who you are beyond, or maybe even in spite of, being a person who is dealing with cancer.  Quality of life at its most essential is a deep remembering of what matters to us and how we continue to value ourselves and the choices we make.

Reflect on what really matters to you in regard to your cancer care or survivorship care.  My hope is that you will also  feel safe enough to risk bringing your questions and comments to your treatment team as a way to open up an important dialogue.