Establishing a support network
Whether you have been newly diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) or you are attempting to come back from a relapse, it is helpful to have people in your life to support your journey. People who have cancer often find that their needs change because of their cancer. The tasks of daily life may become more challenging. Feelings may be more intense. It is important to remember that you are not alone. In addition to the doctors, nurses, and other members of your treatment team, your support network may include:
If you are a caregiver for an APL patient, you are a big part of the support network.
>> Click here for information that may be helpful to you.
Sources of support
Family and friends can support you in many ways. But they may wait for you to give them
hints or ideas about what to do. Someone who is not sure if you want company may call
"just to see how things are going." When someone says, "Let me know if there is anything
I can do," tell this person if you need help with an errand or a ride to the doctor's office.
Family members and friends can also:
- Keep you company, give you a hug, or hold your hand
- Listen as you talk about your hopes and fears
- Help with rides, meals, errands, or household chores
- Go with you to doctor's visits or treatment sessions
- Tell other friends and family members ways they can help
>> Click here for more information from the National Cancer Institute about
getting the support you need.
Other APL patients
Even though your family and friends help, you may also want to meet people who have cancer
now or have had it in the past. Connecting with other patients can provide a source of
encouragement, information, inspiration, and support. Often, you can talk with them about
things you can't discuss with others. People with cancer understand how you feel and can:
- Talk with you about what to expect
- Tell you how they cope with cancer and live a normal life
- Help you learn ways to enjoy each day
- Give you hope for the future
Let your doctor or nurse know that you want to meet other people with cancer. You can
also meet other people with cancer in the hospital, at your doctor's office, or through
online message boards or support groups.
>> Click here for more information from the National Cancer Institute about
getting the support you need.
Cancer support groups are meetings for people with cancer and those touched by cancer.
These groups allow you and your loved ones to talk with others facing the same problems.
Support groups often have a lecture as well as time to talk. Almost all groups have a leader
who runs the meeting. The leader can be someone with cancer or a trained counselor. People
in support groups often:
- Talk about what it’s like to have cancer
- Help each other feel better, more hopeful, and not so alone
- Learn about what's new in cancer treatment
- Share tips about ways to cope with cancer
Many hospitals, cancer centers, community groups, and schools offer cancer support groups.
You can call your local hospital and ask about its cancer support programs, or look in the
health section of your local newspaper for a listing of cancer support groups.
>> Click here for more information from the National Cancer Institute about
getting the support you need.
Information for caregivers
Caregiving can feel like a full-time job. Caregivers often help people with preparing meals,
food shopping, babysitting, bathing and dressing, transportation to medical appointments,
taking medications, and providing emotional support. As a caregiver, you may experience
feelings such as anxiety, fear, anger, sadness and exhaustion because of the patient's
diagnosis and treatment. While you are caring for others, it is important to take time to
care for yourself. Some caregivers find that keeping a list or schedule of appointments
helps them feel more organized. Having your own support system can also be very helpful in
reducing stress.
>> Click here for more information from the National Cancer
Institute about your role as a caregiver.
The American Cancer Society also offers helpful suggestions for supporting cancer patients.
>> Click here to
learn how you can best support your loved one, including tips for communication and a list of Do's and Don'ts.