What next after a cancer diagnosis?
This is the place to start if you have been diagnosed with cancer. Whether you are waiting for the next appointment or waiting to start cancer treatment, we’re here to help.
The advice and resources below are based on suggestions from people who know what it is like to get a diagnosis. They have shared some of the tips that helped them prepare.
Susan
Kate
Find information and support
“I found it really useful to prepare a list of questions that I wanted to ask.” – Neil
Meeting your cancer team
For information about your cancer treatment plan and what to expect, it is always best to talk to someone from your cancer team. After diagnosis, you should have an appointment with, for example, a cancer doctor or specialist nurse.
Try to think about what you want to ask your cancer team before your appointment. Our questions to ask your healthcare team might help you prepare.
Support to understand information
If English is not your first language, or you have a physical or learning disability then you might need support:
- to get the health information you need
- to communicate your questions, thoughts and decisions to your cancer team.
While you are waiting
“I found it really helpful to stay physically active while I waited for my surgery to take place, especially as it was rescheduled which caused me a lot of anxiety. I made sure I had time outside everyday, going for walks and running errands. " - Bonny
"There's a big cancer community online. We share our stories and you can just be yourself.” - Jacky
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