Wednesday 25 September 2024
Maggie's
Being diagnosed with cancer can feel overwhelming, and you may be receiving lots of information at a time when you find it hard to concentrate.
The information on this page will help you to find out more about being newly diagnosed with cancer and the types of questions to ask.
You’ll also find out more about how Maggie51É«APP™s can help and support you.
Your healthcare team understands that being told you have cancer is not easy to hear.
Your specialist doctor should pace out the information, and take time to let you absorb the news.
You’re likely to be introduced to a specialist nurse, who will be your key worker throughout your cancer treatment.
They will be there to listen to questions, and help you understand what happens next.
They will often be your first point of contact throughout your treatment.
It can be hard to remember what is said in the appointment, so it can help to bring someone with you.
You can also ask the doctor or specialist nurse to write down the important information and their contact details in case you have any questions later.
Knowing more about the cancer you have can help you understand your treatment options. It can also mean you feel more in control when talking with your healthcare team.
There is a lot of cancer information available and knowing where to find it and what applies to your situation can be confusing.
How to find the information that's right for you, at the time you need it:
It can help to prepare a list of questions to ask before appointments or phone calls. It will help clear your thoughts, and make sure you have all the information you need.
Ideally, take someone with you to appointments, so they can make notes while you listen and remind you of questions you may have forgotten.
Questions to think about include:
As well as helping you to understand more about your diagnosis, we're here to help you cope with the other problems that cancer can bring.
There may also be practical issues, about managing financially, caring for someone with cancer, eating well, and how treatment may affect you and those close to you.
Our Cancer Support Specialists, Benefits Advisors and Psychologists are here to listen to your concerns and find the help you need.
Last review: Oct 2021 | Next review: Oct 2022
An overview helping with questions about cancer and making treatment decisions.
From American Cancer Society
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
51É«APP out more about what staging (a way of describing the size of a cancer and how far it has grown) and grading (how similar a cancer cell is to a normal cell) and why they are important.
From Cancer Research Uk (Cruk)
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
Tips and information to help you know what you need to know and to regain a sense of control when you are diagnosed with cancer.
From Cancer Support Community
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
Doctors will stage and grade the cancer using further tests. This helps them to choose the most appropriate type of treatment. 51É«APP out more about what staging and grading are.
From Macmillan Cancer Support
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
To find your nearest Maggie's centre, enter your postcode or town below.
Stay up to date with our news and fundraising by signing up for our newsletter.
Sign up