Surviving Cancer Pt. 2
This is obviously a subject that affects everyone, whether directly or indirectly. We had so many viewers call in to share their own personal stories and offer advice.
Sally deLipkau, one of our guests, has had cancer FIVE times! She was first diagnosed with breast cancer at only 37! The diagnosis came just after her own father died of cancer. They say cancer can be genetic, so if someone in your family has had cancer, make sure you get yourself screened regularly.
One caller had a great question about second opinions. Should you get a second opinion? Will your doctor be offended? Dr. Lim, another one of our guests, says yes and no. Yes get that second opinion; he won’t be offended. Dr. Lim says that with most cancers the treatment for that particular cancer will be the same no matter what doctor you go to, but a few cancers do have treatments that may vary. In that case, he says to make sure you ask WHY? Why do I need this particular treatment? Then you’ll know which treatment is probably best for you.
What about symptoms? One of our callers says he went to the doctor four times for a pulled muscle before they found out it was cancer. Well, according to our experts, that’s one of the problems with detecting cancer. A lot of times its’ symptoms (if there are even any symptoms) are the same symptoms as more common, less serious problems, such as weight gain.
The most important thing though, is early detection. That’s your best hope for a cure! Make sure you’re getting yourself checked out!
And if you’re low income, don’t fret! The Nevada Cancer Institute is there to help! The NCI helps you find money and if you don’t have someone to go with you to the doctor, they’ll go with you so you don’t have to be alone. It’s a great service for Nevadans!
Most of all, if you are diagnosed with cancer, many of our cancer survivors stressed the importance of attitude. Don’t let it get you down. Of course you’re going to have your moments were you’re upset, but don’t let those moments consume your day!
