Cancer Fighters Thrive is a quarterly print and online magazine bringing readers practical, innovative and inspirational information about cancer treatment and survivorship.
Issue link: http://cancerfightersthrive.epubxp.com/i/61344
SPECIAL FEATURE COPING TOGETHER The physical, emotional, and logistical impacts of handling two cases of cancer under one roof can be overwhelming for even the most solid, time-tested relation- ships. As the Dochnahls learned, however, the hurdles can help solidify a marriage in ways that a counselor couldn't match. Katherine Puckett, PhD, LCSW, MSW, MS, national director of mind-body medicine at Cancer Treatment Centers of America®, says that several factors af- fect a couple's ability to manage in such situations: their ages, the length of their relationship, their stage of life (Are there young children at home? Are they empty nesters?), and how sick or well each pa- tient is (Is it a minor case? Is it stage IV?). The strength of the family's exist- ing support structure is also important, says Dr. Puckett. Lending physical and emotional support can go a long way to help, but that's not always feasible when you are sick, too. "In most cases the other person will provide support, but if he or she is also in treatment, you have to become each other's support," she says. "That's not always easy." Family members, neighbors, co- workers, and other individuals who are aware of the situation and likely to lend a hand can help fill that gap. "This may be a time to put your pride and privacy aside for a while and ask for help," says Puckett, who suggests to couples that they consider offloading day-to-day tasks like grocery shopping, gift buying, and child care to individuals who want to help. "It can be hard to ask for help at first, but it gets easier with practice." Taking time together to engage in ac- tivities that reduce stress can also help Ready for More Cancer Fighters Thrive? patients solidify their bonds and support one another. A short walk through the park, a meditation session, or a half hour of listening to music can help couples "get connected and enjoy some time to- gether," says Dr. Puckett. The Dochnahls say that tackling one issue at a time and not letting the "big picture" overwhelm them have been via- ble coping techniques through their vari- ous cancer diagnoses and treatments. They also say that honesty and shar- ing have been their best policies by far. "Some people don't want to talk about their challenges," says William, "but the fact that we have cancer in common has pushed us to open up to one another and has moved us closer together." Visit cfthrive.com for Web-exclusive features, recipes, additional photos, and more. Ready for Summer Grilling? Organic meats can be a great choice if you're planning on grilling this summer, but they require slightly different preparation and cooking time. Marathon Man Complex surgeries can ofen extend over many hours. Learn about the preoperative routine that helps one physician remain focused through long surgical procedures. Speaking from Experience Cancer patients learn valuable information about treatment and recovery when they share information about their treatment experiences. Communicate Any Way You Can As the cover story in this issue illustrates, patient/ physician relationships can be key to a positive treatment experience. Learn how technology tools can foster productive relationships by improving patient/physician communication. View More "Images of Hope" photos submitted by patients at cfhrive.com. 10 cancer fighters thrive | summer 2012 cfthrive.com