Don't let all the movies, books etc. terrify you of the path ahead- remember those things are looking to provide drama. Don't listen to the stories of my neighbor's sister's cousin had.... You are unique! Get information from reliable, trusted sources, know yourself- and go from there. Remember a positive attitude is the
"intangible something" that can't be measured, but can make all the difference in the world regarding your outcomes. Surround yourself with activities and people that help you maintain that positivity!

Do not be afraid to tell the Dr what you are feeling, what side effects you are having, and how much support you need and may not be getting. I gave my Onco a typed list of what I had been dealing with for almost 4 years. He was shocked that I had not discussed these physical happenings with him. I explained that in my generation, women were expected to deal with things and not complain. He told me to stop thinking I would be complaining. "It is reporting and your Dr needs to know so he can help you." Some things happening to me could have been stopped with a change in treatment. ALWAYS ADVOCATE FOR YOURSELF! No one but you knows what you are feeling. You are the most important priority now. Be kind to yourself and learn to understand what your body is telling you. We are strong, we women. We can do this and not one of us should feel alone, because we are all here for each other.

One day at a time, one step at a time! Stay away from too much research on line. Just concentrate and be informed on what is happening presently.

Ask your doctors all the questions you need answers to.

If you do your research, rely only on credible sources—don’t waste your energy analyzing everything you find on the internet.

Understand that now, you are the priority. The most important thing is to be supported, not to support your shocked friends and relatives.

What begins now is the routine. There’s no way back—only forward. Soon, you’ll have the blueprint for your journey. Be patient and follow it one step at a time. It’s annoying, like all routines, but again—be patient.

Seek financial help. There are organizations that support cancer patients based on income and household situation.

Don’t beat yourself up. For a long time, I thought I was the reason this happened. Then I realized—there is no reason. Bad things happen to good people, and good things happen to bad people. It just happens.

Watch funny movies, read lighthearted books, and spend time with people who make you laugh. Laughing helps. Seriously :)

Tackling this problem is just a matter of the time:)

ALL the best wishes

Take someone to your appointments with you. After I heard the word cancer I checked out so I needed someone there to listen to everything.