The By-Your-Side Cancer Guide

When you've been diagnosed with cancer, life becomes a roller coaster of overwhelming questions and emotions. How do I understand my insurance? How do I choose a physician? What is the best treatment plan? How do I manage symptoms and side effects?

Then there are the questions that tend to be avoided. How do I deal with my feelings? How do I keep my spirits up? How do I address intimacy and sexuality? What if my cancer recurs?

As an award-winning oncology nurse and a cancer survivor, Deborah Gomer understands the questions and the emotions. She understands the need to take control of that roller coaster. In her search for a resource to recommend to her patients, she was unable to find a book that answered all of the questions her patients had been asking. So she set out to chart a comprehensive course for coping with a cancer diagnosis. In The By-Your-Side Cancer Guide,  Deborah walks you through diagnosis, treatment, and beyond with honesty and understanding. As a certified health coach, she provides the tools you need to find your inner strength and navigate your journey.

Within the pages of The By-Your-Side Cancer Guide, you will find information on:

• Taking the first steps after diagnosis
• Understanding insurance and finding resources
• Choosing the right team and the right treatment
• Managing side effects
• Caring for your emotions and your spirit
• Nourishing your body
• Addressing recurrence

The By-Your-Side Cancer Guide will serve as a compassionate, concise guide to strengthen your mind, body, and spirit so you can be empowered, proactive, and prepared to take control of your medical care and your life.

Foreward

Preface

Introduction

Part I:  Getting Started

1   The First Steps

2   Managing the Cost of Care

3   Understanding Your Treatment Options

Part II:  Caring for Your Mind

4   Nurturing Your Spirit

5   Stress, Emotions, and Depression

Part III:  Caring for Your Body

6   Make Nutrition Your Prescription

7   Challenges to Eating Well

8   Taking Control of Side Effects

Part IV:  Addressing Difficult Issues

9   Sexuality and Intimacy

10  If Cancer Recurs

Part V

11  Moving Forward

AppendixA:  Glossary

Appendix B:  Nutrition Tips and Suggestions

Appendix C:  Resources

Acknowledgments

About the Author