Indiana Injury Law Blog

When a person hears that they have cancer, they usually begin to think of how to "finalize" things. They automatically tend to assume that their life will soon be ending, and their "inbox" is still full. Although cancer is a very serious diagnosis, it does not have to be a death sentence.

As with all diseases and health conditions, detection is key. You cannot fix what you do not find. Hearing the word "cancer" can immediately force a newly-diagnosed patient to not hear another word their healthcare provider says afterwards. They focus solely on that word and nothing else. In the battle against cancer, the patient must have a medical staff they believe in. They must make the decision to jump full tilt into overcoming one of the most difficult obstacles they may ever face. They must surround themselves with education about their treatments and tests. Above all, a newly-diagnosed cancer patient must remain positive.

Statistics are just numbers. When a physician offers a patient their "odds" that is nothing more than a guess. Nobody can predict expiration dates. Expiration dates are for dairy products, not for people. Everybody is different. Where one program may work for one person, it may not be the best fit for another. Clinical trials and new developments happen often, and a cancer patient should surround himself with the medical staff that is cutting edge.

In addition to the medical angle to treat cancer, many people often overlook the benefits of nutrition. Water is key. Certain foods, like tomatoes, contain anti-cancer agents. During all treatments and diet changes, it is important to remain positive. It is perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed by the fight against cancer. However, surrounding yourself with a great support team is very important. Empower yourself by surrounding yourself with support from others who have been exactly where you have been with regard to cancer. The experiences a cancer survivor can provide to a cancer patient is incredible. It can eliminate fear, apprehension, and saddness.

A great source for support is the American Cancer Society. They even have a Cancer Survivor Network (www.acscsn.org) which can provide support for every form of cancer known. It even has separate categories so you can get information specifically on your type of cancer.

Above all, when fighting cancer, just remember that you do not have to do it alone.

For the 2nd year in a row, Theodoros & Rooth supported the Hospice of the Calumet Area by acting a sponsor of the "Hospice Hustle," a cycling event around Lake County, Indiana. The purpose of the event was to raise funds for the local Hospice, www.hospicecalumet.org, which is an incredibly worthy organization whose mission is to provides a staff of qualified nurses, social workers, clergy, and volunteers to work in partnership with the patient, their family, and their personal physician to make the dying patient's final period of life comfortable and peaceful. They also work with physicians to obtain effective control of pain and discomfort.

Of course, we all hope that neither we nor our loved ones will never need such services; however, in the unfortunate event that we are confronted with a difficult and painful "end-of-life" period, Hospice is available to provide support and comfort.

I believe that it is an organization worthy of support.

Barry Rooth