Dealing with the news that you have Cancer is simply not an easy thing to do. There are few words that can change your life more than, “you’ve got cancer.”

While everyone takes the news differently, there are a few steps all patients can take to help prepare for the road ahead. In CRCC’s experience of helping to guide patients through the process, we have listed a few items below that should help you in your journey.

• Communicate - The first step is to communicate. It is imperative that you speak to your doctors and discuss the steps and expectations of your treatment. Inform your family and friends and build a support group to help you through your treatment. When you are worried, scared or upset, relay those feelings to those close to you so you never feel alone. Support is crucial. It often helps to speak with others who have gone through similar treatments or join a support group that puts you in touch with individuals on similar paths as you. It is also important when receiving therapy to tell your doctor/nurse team if you develop problems or just have questions.

• Educate yourself - By preparing your mind, you can better prepare your body. While there is plenty of information available, utilize your doctor to understand your treatment options and specifically what will be done for you during your treatment. Learn exactly what to expect prior to, during and after your treatment. By developing an understanding of the process, you can better prepare yourself for all that may happen.

• Exercise - Along with having a sound mind, it will help to have a sound body. Exercise can be beneficial in that you will be more equipped both mentally and physically to deal with the treatment. Patients in better physical conditioning tend to tolerate therapy easier and do better overall. Continue exercising after you have completed your course of treatment. Studies have shown exercise should help you during your recovery period. Consult with your doctor to determine what type of exercise is best for you.

• Relax - While receiving the radiation you may be placed in a confined area for a short period of time. Similar to a CT procedure, certain types of radiation require the patient to enter a narrow tube while planning or receiving the treatment. During this time, it helps to relax. Try to put your body in a state of relaxation through meditation, slow breathing or other relaxing techniques. While the actual radiation treatment usually last no longer than 5-10 minutes, it can take several minutes to make sure you are in the exact treatment position required to ensure the proper dose of radiation is delivered to the tumor site.