Help for When Things Go South

What is the first thing you think about when you hear the word cancer? I think for most people, hearing it uttered from a white coated professional, the following thoughts are typical: What kind of cancer is it? Was it caught in the early or late stages? And then finally, Is it terminal? If yes, how much longer?
 
No one hopes to ever hear such an utterance. But, none of us are promised a life without suffering. And sometimes that suffering comes by way of a cancer diagnosis and the battle for life, thereafter. But even so, we do have this one thing-a hope that does not disappoint. We trust God’s character, and do not accuse Him, for we know He has not caused our sickness and loves us perfectly. We ask for the healing we know He is able to give and resolve to be faithful even if the sickness does not depart. We find comfort in the resilience of His love, as we feel Him tenderly grasp our hand in the midst of the fire, which burns without destroying us.

This week, and in the weeks to come, we write for you-the sisters who will sit across from a white coated professional and hear the word cancer. More specifically, those of you who will receive a diagnosis of colorectal cancer.

What is colorectal cancer?
​Colorectal cancer is an abnormal growth of cells, which begins in the colon or rectum. These small clumps of cells dwell in the lining of the colon and are called polyps. Those polyps, at first benign, have the potential to develop into cancer if not removed. (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353674).

What stage is the cancer in?
Cancer stages are numbered 1- 4. “The stage of a cancer describes its size and whether it has spread. Knowing the stage of the cancer helps doctors decide on the best treatment for you. The most commonly used staging system is the TNM system.” (https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/bowel-cancer/staging-and-grading-of-bowel-cancer). Watch this video by The Cancer Treatment Centers of America describing the TNM staging of cancer and the subsequent treatments that may follow based on the stage determination:

Other Things to Keep in Mind

• Ask your oncologist for a copy of your pathology report.
• Secure explanations of the report in language you can understand. Take notes and record any other questions that may come to mind. Check out this resource by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance: Questions to ask your doctor about diagnosis and treatment. ​

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• Secure knowledge of the immediate next steps being recommended based on the staging of the cancer. Learn about the different treatments associated with each stage in this resource by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance: Colorectal cancer treatment options by stage of diagnosis.

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• Seek a second opinion from another pathologist. It is understandable to want a second opinion when you have a life altering diagnosis. It is allowed by most insurance companies, under their guidelines. Doctor, Can We Talk?” Tips for Communicating with Your Health Care Team by Cancercare, is another great resource! 
• Prayerfully consider with whom you will share your diagnosis. These persons will form a unique part of your care team. They will listen attentively and empathetically, hold you when you cry, encourage you in the hope and joy of the LORD, take and or accompany you to the many appointments you’ll need to go to, help you record important details pertaining to your treatment and remind you to follow-up with your medical care team when questions arise. They will also be allowed to stay with you during exams. You may choose a family member(s), close friend(s), co-worker (s) or member(s) of your church family. 
• Consider receiving short-term emotional support via counseling. Cancercare provides in-person and telephone services. Learn more by calling  1-800-813-HOPE (4673) or emailing info@cancercare.org.

Beloved, there is hope and hope has a name and it is Jesus. 

We pray that when the shock and fear seek to drown you, that He will erect a standard that allows you to breathe in the sweet air of His salvation. We pray that when the thoughts of past, present and future converge upon your contemplation of your mortality, that you will find His stead authoritative whisper stilling the storm-steadying your heart. We pray that no matter how tumultuous the journey, you will have the courage to pursue life. We pray that God’s kindness and comfort will surround you in the flesh and bones of loved ones-friends you’ve held dear and even new ones. We pray that knowledge, wisdom and understanding will be granted to those who treat you-that they will be instructed by the Great Physician about how to care for you. We pray that all human obedience to the Holy Spirit’s leading will be made profitable by God’s grace and power, to the end of life and life more abundantly. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Happy temple building!