Patients

Tips for Coping with a New Cancer Diagnosis from the NIH:  
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/coping

And more information from the Mayo Clinic:  
Five Tips for your first Appointment with an LMS Diagnosis: 
https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide/preparing-for-your-visit/how-to-make-the-most-of-your-appointment

Here are some more tips that can help for all future appointments . . . .

Don’t go to your appointment alone  –  take someone with you to take notes for you, to minimize distraction in conversation with your provider.
Keep a journal or log between appointments to record your symptoms, side effects, emotions and more. Prepare for your appointment by reading your journal, your notes from your last visit and any notes or records in your patient portal.
When making your list of questions ahead of time, leave space to write down the answers. Share your list with a spouse, caregiver or close friend to see if you forgot anything.
Bring someone with you who will be able to focus on recording notes and helping you ask all your questions.
Always bring a list of your prescriptions.
Your Sarcoma Specialist will want to make sure to give every patient the time and dedication they deserve, so you may have a wait time. Bring a book, tablet or coloring book to help you keep busy during your downtime.
Be honest. Don’t be afraid to communicate anything that is on your mind (physical, emotional or otherwise).
Don’t feel as if you can’t ask something – if a question is important to you, it’s important to ask.
Be your own best advocate. Ask about support services, complementary therapies and anything else you may want to help with your journey.

Before the appointment ends, make sure you have a clear understanding of what the next steps are. If you are unsure, ask

We are all survivors from the time we are initially diagnosed to the end of treatment and into long term survivorship.