Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyBCTeam Member asked a question πŸ’­
Middletown, NJ
October 26
 · 
Be the first to react
A MyBCTeam Member

It's a great idea to have someone with you for all of your appointments. A second set of ears is good. Under stress we do not always catch all the details. And you can compare what you heard. Good luck! Stay strong! πŸ’ͺπŸ©·πŸ™

October 28
A MyBCTeam Member

Absolutely!! Most doctors are glad to have you bring someone, because they don't know how any patient will respond to news, suggestions, etc. and if you have a trusted family member or friend there, they know you will have the emotional support you are comfortable with! Good luck with your appointment! Hugs!

October 27
A MyBCTeam Member

It's ok to have someone with you for almost everything cancer related. The only times you can't have someone by your side is when you're having radiation treatments, scans like CT, MRI, PET, xray, etc or in the operating room while you have surgery. Any kind of consult, surgery follow up, or regular primary care or oncology appointments are ok to bring someone with you. For radiation treatments, scans, and surgery your person can be there, but they have to wait in the waiting area while your procedure is being done. Cancer related appointments can be overwhelming and have a lot of details so it's helpful to have some moral support and an extra set of ears to hear and remember what was discussed.

October 26
MyBCTeam

Absolutely! Bringing a trusted friend, family member, or caregiver to any oncology appointment β€” including a radiation consultation β€” is highly encouraged.

Having someone by your side can help in several important ways:

- Note-taking β€” They can jot down key information so you can focus on listening
- Asking questions β€” They Show Full Answer

Absolutely! Bringing a trusted friend, family member, or caregiver to any oncology appointment β€” including a radiation consultation β€” is highly encouraged.

Having someone by your side can help in several important ways:

- Note-taking β€” They can jot down key information so you can focus on listening
- Asking questions β€” They may think of things you forget in the moment
- Reporting symptoms β€” They can share observations about how you've been feeling
- Emotional support β€” A reassuring presence can make a stressful appointment much easier

As one MyBCTeam member shared, "My first meeting with my oncologist was a bit overwhelming. I was so glad I had someone with me to take notes and for support. There's so much info to absorb all at once."

Before the appointment, let your support person know exactly how they can help β€” whether that's taking notes, asking questions, or simply being there for moral support.

If no one is available, ask your care team if an oncology nurse navigator can join you instead. They're specially trained to help guide people through cancer care.

October 26

Related Questions

View All
A MyBCTeam Member asked a question πŸ’­
Philadelphia, PA

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question πŸ’­
Alpharetta, GA