Wearing masks, staying home, and health concerns…the entire world is upside down. However, as a cancer patient, survivor, caretaker, or loved one, health and safety are always concerning. In the wake of the worldwide pandemic and as we reopen society, many affected by cancer are anxious.
As you may know, cancer patients are in the “high-risk” category for COVID-19. Cancer patients are also at risk for many other illnesses, because their immune systems are weakened by the disease itself and its treatments. Understandably, patients and their caregivers should take extra precautions to lower their risk of contracting COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommendations for at-risk patients. You can find information on their website by clicking HERE.
For Your Questions:
Cancer patients, their families, and caregivers often have questions, especially as we reduce social distancing. When you have a question, always contact your healthcare provider. It is their job to keep you informed about the ever changing COVID-19 situation. News about this outbreak is changing by the day, so keep asking questions! The website cancer.org is also a great resources to help you navigate these uncharted waters.
Get Support:
Even though we are physically alone, there is a vast community of people affected by cancer who are feeling some of the same fears and isolation. There are a number of ways you can get help right from your living room couch.
Start by reach out to a friend, relative, or neighbor and be candid about what you are feeling and experiencing. You can even ask your healthcare team for tips, too!
There is an online chat at: cancersupportcommunity.org
Or you can call the helpline at: (1-888-793-9355)
Social sites, like Facebook, also have cancer communities and you can find support from others.
Get Involved:
Want to join the fight against cancer? It is wonderful to be involved with a local cancer charity, like Nancy Valenkamph Cancer Foundation. A great sense of pride and fulfillment emerges when you are a part of an organization that fights against cancer by raising money for research. There are so many exciting things going on in the realm of cancer research! Read our article about cancer research HERE. We also have a blog about recent breakthroughs HERE.
To find out about our future golf outings and how you can get involved, feel free to call: 219-477-9826 or email info@nancyvalenkamphcancerfoundation.com. We look forward to getting to know you!
