You are a member of your health care team.

It is important to be active in the decision-making process of your care.

Helpful actions:

• Find a health care team you can be comfortable with in sharing the journey.  You may need a second opinion.
• Be fully informed about your diagnosis, its treatment options, potential outcomes and possible side effects.
• Communicate your needs and any changes in your condition including reponses to medications.
• Ask questions when you don't understand the medical terms.
• Speak to others who can support you.
• Join a support group.
• Pray when you can and when you can't - Romans 8:26.  And ask others to pray for you.
• Take a family member or friend to appointments - it helps to have an extra set of ears.
• Have a list of questions and room to write your answers.
• Look at where you can minister to others on the journey.
• Try to keep a positive attitude.
• Pace activities, but keep exercising.  Check with your physician regarding appropriate exercise.