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/259111
frightening, depressing and challenging for the former partners. The addition of a cancer diagnosis, which comes with its own fears, threats, issues and concerns, dramatically compounds the enormous challenges that result from separation or divorce," says Dr. Edelstein. "For the cancer patient whose spouse has left, the attention, involvement and support of loving family and friends can play an important and signifcant role in cancer care and quality of life—providing for the patient's physical, emotional, medi- cal and practical needs." He adds, "While no one claims that the intermittent assistance and support of family and friends is a true replacement for the constant presence of a dedicated spouse, the deep involvement of loved ones is invaluable to the single cancer patient." A New Normal As you adjust to the many changes that can arise as a result of a cancer diagno- sis, you will no doubt be experiencing a "new normal." Coping with the end of a relationship at this time will add another dimension to the changed landscape of your life. While these changes can present challenges, know that with support you can navigate this period and move ahead to embrace a full life. spring 2014 | cancer fighters thrive 33 cf thrive. com REACH OUT FOR RESOURCES Support groups and individual therapy can provide great beneft if you are experiencing challenges in your relationship, as can print and online infor- mation and support available through the following organizations: • American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy A professional association for the feld of marriage and family therapy, this organization provides TherapistLocator.net, a website ofering information about problems facing today's families and links to qualifed family thera- pists in the local community. aamf.org 703-838-9808 • American Cancer Society This nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization is dedi- cated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem, ofering a wide range of support services. cancer.org 800-227-2345 • American Psychosocial Oncology Society The APOS Toll-Free Helpline is a national resource to help people with cancer and their caregivers fnd counseling services in their own communities. apos-society.org 866-APOS-4-HELP (866-276-7443) • CancerCare This nonproft organization provides professional services to help people manage the emotional and fnancial challenges of cancer, with free tele- phone, online and in-person counseling and support groups, resource refer- rals, publications, education and fnancial and co-payment assistance. cancercare.org 800-813-HOPE (800-813-4673) • Imerman Angels This free service, available worldwide, partners cancer fghters, survivors and caregivers with "Mentor Angels" of the same age and gender who have had the same type of cancer. imermanangels.org 877-274-5529 • National Cancer Institute The National Cancer Institute coordinates the National Cancer Program, which conducts and supports research, training, health information dissem- ination and other programs with respect to the cause, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of cancer, rehabilitation from cancer and the continuing care of cancer patients and the families of cancer patients. Coping with Cancer cancer.gov/cancertopics/coping 800-4-CANCER (800-422-6237) • Stupid Cancer This nonproft organization empowers young adults afected by cancer through innovative and award-winning programs and services. stupidcancer.org MIND-BODY CONNECTION cftSp#23vky.indd 33 2/4/14 9:37 AM