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Taking Control After a Cancer Diagnosis
You didn’t choose this moment, and it isn’t fair. Feeling scared, angry, or overwhelmed is normal. You’re not alone, and there are practical steps you can take—at your pace—to regain clarity and move forward with confidence
Our family and support team built and refined these steps as we navigated two cancer journeys over the last few years - and they have helped us stay focused on being in control of the journey.
Immediate Steps for Clarity and Control
- Get your exact diagnosis in writing
- Ask for copies of all pathology and imaging reports (with stage, grade, and any biomarkers) and the after-visit summary.
- Enroll in your patient portal so you can download records anytime.
- Understand diagnosis & staging – National Cancer Institute
- Schedule a second opinion early
- Second opinions can confirm the diagnosis and surface new options.
- Prioritize NCI-Designated Cancer Centers or accredited programs.
- Find NCI-Designated Cancer Centers | NCCN Questions for Patients
- Ask for a multidisciplinary review (“tumor board”)
- This brings medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists together with pathology and radiology to review your case.
- Ask your team whether your case can be presented at tumor board.
- Understand options before agreeing to treatment
- For each option, ask: goal (cure, control, symptom relief), expected benefit, risks/side effects, alternatives, and impact on daily life.
- Request a written plan with timelines and how success will be measured.
- Questions to Ask Your Care Team (NCCN)
- Discuss biomarker/molecular testing (when relevant)
- Ask if your cancer type typically has biomarkers that guide therapy (e.g., hormone receptors, HER2, MSI, PD-L1, EGFR, ALK, etc.).
- Biomarker testing for cancer treatment (NCI)
- Consider clinical trials early
- Trials can offer cutting-edge care. Ask your oncologist which trials may fit your diagnosis and stage.
- ClinicalTrials.gov | NCI Clinical Trials Finder
- Bring a support person and a notebook
- Have someone take notes and help ask questions. It’s okay to request permission to audio-record the visit.
- Ask for a patient navigator or oncology social worker.
- Cancer Support Community | NCI Cancer Information Service (1-800-4-CANCER)
Build Your Care Team
- Oncologists matched to your cancer type
- Verify board certification and experience with your diagnosis.
- US News Doctor Finder | ASCO – Find an Oncologist | ABMS Certification Matters
- Specialized centers and accredited programs
- Essential allies: oncology nurse, pharmacist, oncology dietitian, social worker/patient navigator, and supportive/palliative care (can be added early alongside treatment).
Fertility, Family, and Life Planning
- Fertility preservation (ask before treatment starts if pregnancy in the future might be desired).
ASCO Fertility Preservation Guideline (overview) | ASRM Committee Opinion - Advance care planning: complete an advance directive and designate a healthcare proxy.
State Advance Directive Forms – CaringInfo (NHPCO) | Prepare for Your Care
Talking to Family and Workplace
- Family: share what’s known now, set boundaries, and give concrete ways to help (rides, meals, note-taking at visits).
- Work: know your rights (ADA, FMLA) and company policies; request accommodations and document agreements.
Triage Cancer – Employment & Insurance | Cancer and Careers
Mental Health & Safe Information Habits
- It’s okay not to feel “positive” all the time. Ask for counseling or a support group.
- Limit online searching and stick to reputable sources.
- Cancer Support Community | APOS – Find a Psychosocial Oncologist
Integrative & Everyday Wellness
- Nutrition & activity: modest, regular physical activity and a balanced diet are generally encouraged during and after treatment (tailor to your situation).
ASCO Survivorship Guidelines (diet & exercise) - Supplements: discuss everything you take with your oncologist (some herbs interact with treatments).
MSK “About Herbs” evidence database - Fatigue & symptoms: track sleep, pain, nausea, and energy to guide adjustments in care.
Track Progress with Measurable Markers
- Clinical: tumor markers (if applicable), imaging response, surgical margins, lymph nodes, pathology addenda.
- Daily life: weight trends, symptom scores (pain, nausea, fatigue), activity tolerance.
- Treatment log: dates, doses, side effects, key labs—helps your team optimize care quickly.
Find a Cancer Specialist Near You
Use the quick search below or click any directory to browse.
Gentle Next Steps You Can Take Today
- Write down your top three questions and bring them to your next visit.
- Call to schedule a second opinion at an NCI-Designated or CoC-accredited center.
- Ask your clinic to connect you with a patient navigator or social worker.
- Choose a trusted person to be your point-of-contact for support and logistics.
This page provides general information and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always discuss decisions with your oncology team.