I have a diagnosis of cancer
What does this mean for me?
The diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming and you and your family may be experiencing lots of emotions and have many questions. It may be helpful to think about these questions, write them down and talk through with your GP or cancer team.
- https://www.macmillan.org.uk/diagnosed-with-cancer
What is a cancer clinical nurse specialist (CNS)?
They are a key person in your clinical care. They will be your main point of contact as you progress through your treatment and follow up. Your CNS will help you understand every stage of the pathway and your treatment options. They will provide and co-ordinate support and care for you.
Can I choose to have appointments in person or virtually - by phone or video?
Yes, please talk with your clinical team about your options. Some appointments may need to be in person as physical examination may be required.
What treatment options do I have?
The treatment options will depend on the type of cancer and if it has spread to other parts of your body. Your doctor will explain the options relevant for you and will give you written information about these.
- https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/treatment/your-treatment-options/making-treatment-decisions
How do I make the best treatment decision for me?
You can talk through your options with your clinical team and also ask for more information to help you understand your choices better.
What happens next?
Your clinical team will talk you through the next steps. Improving your physical health (physical activity and nutrition) before you undertake treatment has been shown to be of benefit, so ask for advice about being as active and well as possible.
- https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-in-general/treatment/prehabilitation/what-is-prehabilitation
Where will my treatment take place?
Your treatment may take place at one or more hospital sites. Discuss this with your clinical team and get further details.
I am feeling emotional. Who can I talk to about this?
You may wish to talk about your feelings with your clinical team or ask them to signpost you to a local service that provides emotional support. There may also be people in your own support network who you may find it helpful to speak to.
- https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/get-help/emotional-help/macmillan-support-line
- https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/coping
I am a carer for a family member with cancer, can I access support?
This website provides more details and links to specific charities that can help depending on what you need. Alternatively you may ask your family member's clinical nurse specialist for advice, or you can access the Macmillan Information and Support Service at the hospital.
- https://patient.info/news-and-features/what-health-support-is-available-for-carers
I have a family history of cancer - will others in my family get cancer?
It's important you discuss any family history of cancer you know of with your clinician. They will be able to advise on any potential risks for your family members in getting cancer, and next steps.
How do I know that I am receiving the best care and support for me?
Your cancer care will be personalised for you to make sure you receive the best care and support for the things that matter most to you. You should be offered a Holistic Needs Assessment, Treatment Summary and Health and Wellbeing Information and Support. Information on these is available in the link. And you can ask any member of your cancer team about when/how to receive these.
- https://cancerwellbeinglondon.nhs.uk/health-and-wellbeing-information/affected-by-cancer/
How do I tell my family and others that I have cancer?
Explaining a diagnosis of cancer to loved ones can be challenging. There are lots of resources that are available to help you with this. You can also speak to your clinical nurse specialist for further support and advice.
- https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/diagnosis/talking-about-cancer/how-to-tell-people-you-have-cancer, www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/diagnosis/talking-about-cancer/talking-to-children-and-teenagers
Disclaimer
This checklist as been co-created with residents, patients and carers from the five north central London boroughs of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington, as well as healthcare professionals. The checklist gives an overall picture of the main steps in the cancer pathway but recognises there will be variation for many people. The signposted third party resources have been carefully selected and verified. We endeavour to ensure they are current and active but cannot guarantee this.