April is Cancer Control Month–What are You Doing About It?

The National Cancer Society has named April as Cancer Control Month.  Heart disease is the only cause of death beating out cancer in the US.  There are so many kinds of cancer and so much to be known about for each one. 

If you are a caregiver to a loved one with cancer, you know how devastating this disease can be.  As you care for your loved one, you will want to remember to take care of yourself, as well.  This means eating right, exercising, getting enough rest and in general, trying to stay healthy.  It also means you should get your annual physical exam at the Doctor’s office.  In between those annual exams, you still will want to stay alert to any signals that your body may have something going on which needs investigating.   

Do you know the seven warning signs of cancer?  If you experience any of these, you should get checked out by your Doctor:

1. Any unusual bleeding
2. A lump or thickening in the breast or any place
3. A sore that doesn’t seem to heal
4. Changes in bowel or bladder habits
5. Persistent cough or hoarseness
6. Problems swallowing or chronic indigestion
7. Change in size or color of a wart or mole

Don’t ignore any of the symptoms.  It may not be cancer, but you need to know for sure.  As a Cancer Caregiver, you must value your own health and not take it for granted.  You’ll be glad you did!

Inspiration for Caregivers

What’s the route to success when you are giving care to a loved one with cancer? 

“To succeed…you need to find something to hold onto, something to motivate you, something to inspire you. ” ~ Tony Dorsett

Susan’s Thoughts

Something to hold onto:  Hope!  Hope for better days ahead.  Hope for a closer relationship with your loved one.  Hope for relief for your loved one’s fears and anxieties about the cancer.  Hope for your loved one with cancer to have a good response to treatment.

Something to motivate you:  You will help set the tone for your loved one’s mindset.  You need to take care of yourself so you will be there to care for them.  You can’t control your loved one’s disease, but you can control your reaction to it.

Something to inspire you:  You are a special person!  You are giving a precious gift to your loved one with cancer.  You will become a better person for the experience.  You will grow in stature and in strength.  You do not have to be alone in this journey.  The Sanctuary For Cancer Caregivers cares for you and your loved one.  You really are a special person!