Healing Matters Vol. I: I Just Found Out I Have Cancer. Now What?

This is the first installment of a blog series intended to address the complexities of mesothelioma care.

When the word, “cancer,” comes out of your doctor’s mouth, chances are you won’t hear much of anything else he or she says after. You knew it was a possibility. The coughing and chest pains weren’t a good sign. But now your doctor is talking about some disease called mesothelioma and everything is a blur.

 Immediately, your mind is flooded with a million thoughts and one big, looming question.

No matter how many friends you have or how supportive your family may be, chances are you feel completely alone in your newfound journey. You know there is so much to do, so much to learn, and you have no idea where to begin. The truth is, there have been many people before you that have gone through the exact same thing — same fears, same question and same feeling of being alone.  So what’s the first thing you do?

Get Connected.

The best thing you can do right after being diagnosed with mesothelioma is to talk with someone who has been there before. Not only do they have the experience and knowledge that you desperately seek, but they can relate to your worries and will be patient in answering all the questions you have. The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) is a great place to start and will connect you with real people that want to help. Whether it is medical information you seek or questions about how to tell your family, you can find your answer here.

ADAO was created by Linda Reinstein, a mesothelioma widow who knows all too well of the fear and isolation that a mesothelioma diagnosis can deliver. Her husband, Alan Reinstein, was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2003. After she lost Alan, Linda committed her life to making sure other people would not feel as helpless as her family did when they were met with a mesothelioma diagnosis. Now, ADAO is the largest mesothelioma support group in the country.

Connecting with others who have gone through the same thing as you can help you move from feelings of helplessness to empowerment. Whether it is a medical reference, legal advice or just a shoulder to lean on, there are people out there who are here for you.

The mesothelioma law firm of Baron and Budd has been working with mesothelioma patients and their families for over 35 years. The law firm knows just how difficult the journey can be and continues to work with ADAO on ways to better serve the mesothelioma community.

To connect with someone who knows what you are going through, visit here.

For more information on Baron and Budd or for a free legal consultation, visit here.