You need emotional support

Mr Polycarp Omari (left) is being screened for breast cancer by Agha-Khan hospital nurse during an event organised by African Cancer Foundation at Jomo Kenyatta sports ground in Kisumu. PHOTO| JACOB OWITI 

In Summary

• Your diet should include fruits and vegetables, which boost the immune system.
• A good diet will also improve your energy levels, so that you are able to manage the fatigue that comes with cancer treatment.
• Exercise will help you to cope better during treatment - talk to your doctor about the kind that is appropriate for you.

By REBECCA MUTHONI
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A cancer diagnosis is not easy to digest, and how well you cope will be determined by how well you understand the disease.

The power of Information: It is important to learn all you can about the type of cancer you have, so that you are in a better position to make decisions on the kind of care you need.

Talk to your doctor about your concerns and ask as many questions as possible, even those you feel may be irrelevant. Important questions include the tests required, treatment options and likely side effects and what to expect during treatment.

The Power of healthy living: Your diet should include fruits and vegetables, which boost the immune system.

A good diet will also improve your energy levels, so that you are able to manage the fatigue that comes with cancer treatment. Exercise will help you to cope better during treatment - talk to your doctor about the kind that is appropriate for you.

The power of communication: Be honest about what you are feeling, because this is the only way you will get the kind of help and advise you need. Talking may also help to ease fear and anxiety.

The power of support: You need all the help you can get. Accept the help that those around you offer, such as washing clothes, preparing meals, and other chores you may not be able to do by yourself.

SHARE EXPERIENCES

Sharing your feelings with someone who has experienced your situation can also help because they understand how you feel. Talking to other cancer survivors can also give you an idea of what to expect during treatment period – my advice is that you join a support group for cancer survivors.

The Power of change: Prepare for any change you anticipate before commencing treatment, this way, you will be in a better position to cope later on. For instance, you may need to take a break after treatment, so this could mean taking leave from your place of work.

You may also need to evaluate your priorities: After a cancer diagnosis, many things in your life may change, including your future goals. Take time to establish what is important and meaningful to you, and focus on it.

The Power to fight stigma: People, including some of your friends, may ask many questions, and even withdraw from you because of misconceptions that still exist about cancer.

Do not allow such stigma to affect you, simply understand that such stereotypes emanate from ignorance.

Those who have cancer have different coping strategies, but what is undisputable is that you need the support of loved ones, those you can always turn to for comfort and encouragement when you need it.