Support for People with Leukemia
Living
with a serious disease such as leukemia is not easy. Some people find they need help coping with the emotional and
practical aspects of their disease.
Support groups can help. In
these groups, patients or their family members get together to share what they
have learned about coping with the disease and the effects of treatment. Patients may want to talk with a member of
their health care team about finding a support group. Groups may offer support in person, over the telephone, or on the
Internet.
People
living with cancer may worry about caring for their families, keeping their
jobs, or continuing daily activities.
Concerns about treatments and managing side effects, hospital stays, and
medical bills are also common. Doctors,
nurses, and other members of the health care team can answer questions about
treatment, working, or other activities.
Meeting with a social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy can be
helpful to those who want to talk about their feelings or discuss their
concerns. Often, a social worker can
suggest resources for financial aid, transportation, home care, or emotional
support.
The
Cancer Information Service can provide information to help patients and their
families locate programs, services, and publications.
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